Big Mal faces tough call on No.6, says Gillett

RUGBY LEAGUE KANGAROOS coach Mal Meninga could face a tough call on who’ll wear the side’s coveted No.6 jumper in Friday’s World Cup opener.

Australia have gathered in Melbourne to take on England in their first group game, with Michael Morgan, Cameron Munster and James Maloney all vying for five-eighth.

Senior Australian forward Matt Gillett says it’s important those who miss out on selection stay positive and focused on their goal of being in the final in December.

“It’s what’s best for the team and all the boys here understand that, whether it’s myself not playing or whatever. We’re here to do a job,” he said.

“Whoever misses out, we’ve still got a job to do, to be around the team and help out.

“I’m sure whoever misses out in game one, they’re going to get a chance throughout the pool games to prove themselves.”

While the five-eighth role remains up in the air, Meninga is certain to name at least four members of Melbourne’s premiership-winning squad, including Billy Slater.

The 34-year-old hasn’t worn the green-and-gold in more than three years.

“He’s done a lot this year from where he’s been with his injuries.

“So for Bill to be back on a personal level, he’d be pretty proud of what he’s done throughout this whole year,” Gillett said.

“Obviously he’s been there before and he’s been a standout in every game he pulls that Kangaroos jersey on. No doubt Friday night will be the same.”

The team had a weights session at Punt Road Oval, home of AFL premiers Richmond, yesterday before hitting the training paddock at Lakeside today.

WHOEVER MISSES OUT, WE’VE STILL GOT A JOB TO DO, TO BE AROUND THE TEAM AND HELP OUT