James Tedesco wants to nail down Australia number one jersey

With Billy Slater now retired, James Tedesco wants to be Australia’s number one for years to come.

Former Kangaroos and Queensland star Slater retired at the end of the NRL season and now there is a vacant spot for Australia’s No. 1 shirt.

Tedesco has enjoyed an incredible year with Sydney Roosters, winning State of Origin with New South Wales, the NRL Premiership and selection as Australia’s full-back for their clash with New Zealand on Saturday.

“I think everyone has the goal of playing for Australia,” he said.

“I knew with Slater retiring that if I had a good year at the Roosters that an opportunity would come up and I was really happy with how I played this year.

“He held the jersey for a number of years and dominated the game but I am 25 now and I think for myself there is a chance to hold the No.1 jersey for a while.

“It is not going to come easy but I think I can get started by training well this week and having a good game on Saturday.”

Tedesco is set to make his Kangaroos debut on Saturday after previously playing six games for Italy.