Tedesco’s time to shine now Billy’s gone: Mal
MAL Meninga has told James Tedesco that it is “his time” ahead of Tedesco’s Kangaroos debut.
Tedesco finally gets the chance to don the No.1 jersey following Billy Slater’s retirement, with the Roosters premiership winner staking his claim to be Australia’s longterm fullback.
“I’ve waited a bit — now I’ve got that No.1 it’s up to me to keep it,” Tedesco said. “To get this opportunity, it’s at my own will to keep it for as long as I want. Slater held this position for a long time now but Mal has said it’s my time.
“I’m excited. Mal has talked to us all about the Australian jersey and what it means. Coming into this squad, you feel a bit overawed about playing for Australia.”
A Kangaroos debut on Saturday night against the Kiwis caps a dream 2018 for Tedesco. He made a much publicised off-season switch to the Roosters before going on to win the Blues player of the year award. He came away with a premiership ring and now a Test jersey.
While Tedesco made his mark at the Tigers because of his attacking brilliance, it was his defence which was a standout this season. “Robbo (Roosters coach Trent Robinson) made it clear from the start that defence will be our No.1 priority,” Tedesco said.
Robinson praised Tedesco’s defensive traits following their grand final win against Melbourne. But the coach and his star are fullback are in agreeance regarding Tedesco’s attack. “Robbo was speaking after the season — the defence he wanted to get out of me has hit 100 per cent of where he wanted to get to,” Tedesco said. “Attack didn’t hit 100 per cent. That’s the exciting bit heading into next year, I still have a bit left to prove on in attack.”