Kangaroos rookie Jacob Preston finds himself in a three-way battle with Angus Crichton and Hudson Young for a starting back-row position.
The Kangaroos are set for a 10-day shootout for spots in the first Test side as coach Kevin Walters weighs up a number of crucial selection decisions before the opening match of the Ashes series.
Preston Scores a Pearler
The team flew out for London on Wednesday morning, leaving little more than a week for players to prove they belong in the side for the clash with England at Wembley on October 25.
Simply earning selection in the squad was a dream come true, but the Bulldog declared he won’t be satisfied until he runs on to the field in the green and gold jumper.
"I was lost for words when 'Kevie' told me I was in the squad," Preston said, speaking to NRL.com.
"Just to be given the opportunity means so much to me."
It's your goal as a kid wanting to play NRL and the No.1 thing is to play for your country. I'm very grateful to be in the squad but it doesn't mean you're guaranteed to play.
"If I do get the opportunity, I won't let anyone down. I'm keen to soak it all up and learn as much as possible."
Walters is blessed with a wealth of options for his halves, with multiple possible combinations. Among the toughest calls will be who lines up at fullback and the makeup of the halves.
Dylan Edwards is the incumbent No.1, but Reece Walsh finished the season with an electrifying run of form that culminated in a Clive Churchill Medal and Broncos premiership.
While the competition is fierce, captain Isaah Yeo said the battle for places in the 17 will ultimately benefit the side in the series opener.
"It's not just the fullback battle, it's in every position," Yeo told NRL.com.
"It's the benefit of having such a big squad and having so many superstars in our game. We've got 24 players who would be the first picked in their club sides.
"Everyone wants to play, everyone wants to be walking out on Wembley Stadium representing their country. That creates competition and that's healthy in any environment.
"It's particularly important here where you need to be at your best. You can't miss a day and that heightens everything."
