Kevin Walters has singled out Matt Burton as an unlucky player to miss out on Australian selection for the upcoming Ashes Test series.
The Canterbury playmaker was a part of Mal Meninga’s Kangaroos side last year, where he filled in as the side’s utility off the bench.
However, he has been overlooked for the trip to England to take on Shaun Wane’s side after a bolter from Canberra nicked in and stole his place.
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Matt Burton the odd man out in Kangaroos selection debate
"It was a very difficult job, particularly leaving players out," Walters said during the unveiling of the 24-man Roos squad. "We could have taken 30 players."
"He wanted to take 40," Australian Rugby League Commission chief Peter V'landys jokingly interjected.
"The budget didn’t allow it," Walters said with a smile.
The Kangaroos be a very different proposition to what they were last year during their successful Pacific Championships campaign.
Seven potential debutants have been included, with Clive Churchill Medal winner Reece Walsh headlining this group.
Alongside him will be Brisbane teammate Gehamat Shibasaki as well as Blayke Brailey, Keaon Kolomatangi, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Jacob Preston and Ethan Strange.
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"There are a couple of guys who I feel for, particularly Matt Burton," Walters said.
"He played for Australia in last year’s series, but there were some guys this year who really jumped out of the ground through the Origin period and also in the finals.
"We want to reward loyalty but also good form and this team has been picked on that form."
Strange enjoyed a standout campaign in the nation’s capital for the Raiders.
And he was praised by Walters in the weeks leading up to the final selection call, which hinted that he may have been about to force his way into the team.
The Aussie halves stocks are stacked with Cam Munster and Tom Dearden likely vying for the No.6 jersey and Nathan Cleary and Mitch Moses shooting it out for the halfback slot.
However, opportunity may arrive for Strange in a role off the bench where his late footwork and explosive speed could be a factor late in matches.
"It’s great to see some of these young guys get their opportunity at the highest level," Walters added.
"For mine, playing for the Kangaroos is the ultimate.
"There will be some tough calls to be made in the 17 and 18, who will play the first Test. But I’d be more than happy to play any one of these players."