Australian Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga has explained why Brisbane tyro Selwyn Cobbo is the kind of flexible player that gets picked for World Cup tours.
Meninga said Cobbo remained right in the mix for selection in his 24-man squad after the 20-year-old's two tries and strong carries while playing centre in the 64-14 win by the Australian PM's XIII over Papua New Guinea in Brisbane.
Meninga played the 20-year-old at left centre rather than in the right wing position he made his own this year at the Broncos and was impressed with his adaptability.
"He is probably a bit more natural on the left side. It just shows how adaptable he is," Meninga said.
"He can play right and he can play left. He can play centre. He can play wing. He can play fullback. That is the type of player you want in your squads going overseas in a World Cup.
"He is considered (for selection), absolutely. We will pick the side next Monday after the (NRL) grand final. We are in a position to pick a team that is going to be very competitive."
Cobbo is close to his family in Cherbourg and likes to visit them regularly but Meninga said he handled the week "really well" in camp.
"I was really happy. Selwyn is a talented player," Meninga said.
"I am very pleased with the way the players handled the game and the week. We knew it was going to be fairly physical affair and I am really happy with the outcome. We had to tough it out at times. I am pleased the players got through it uninjured and enjoyed themselves."
With so many top NRL footballers now playing for the nations of their heritage it has been a challenge for Meninga to settle on his squad..
"It is hard because there are so many great players that are playing our game and that are ineligible to play for the Australian Kangaroos," Meninga said.
"We've got 24 players to pick and there are a whole lot of things that go into that criteria-wise. Origin is really important. Form through the year and at the back end of the year is important, plus the ability to be adaptable and flexible.
"It is a long tour over there away from home. Players need to play in different positions at times, particularly through the games. We've just have to get that balance right.
"Players play left and play right these days, so there is a whole heap of thinking that goes into picking a squad that we think will be successful and do the job, no matter what opposition they play."
