He was the clear frontrunner to be named 2025 IRL Golden Boot winner.
But a moment of defensive over-exuberance in the north of England could cost Reece Walsh the crowning jewel of an unforgettable season.
With 15 minutes left to play in the second Test and Australia on the cusp of retaining the Ashes, leading 14-4, Walsh was sin binned by referee Grant Atkins following a spectacular mid-air collision with England winger Dom Young that was ruled both high and unnecessary.
Given Walsh only returned for the closing moments of the match, it proved one of his final acts in a decidedly mortal performance following last weekend’s other-worldly show at Wembley.
MORE: ‘It’s a farce’—Why the IRL Golden Boot needs a re-boot
Walsh’s return to earth has suddenly opened the door for another player to stake their claim for the prestigious annual award.
However should the Brisbane Broncos fullback not win this year’s IRL Golden Boot the far more complicated question becomes, who does?
Given the honour is now judged solely on international matches—club and Origin form is not considered—the pool of candidates isn’t overly deep, nor is the grading window from which to decide a winner.
It means next weekend’s third Ashes test and the remaining Pacific Championship matches are crucial markers, beginning with today’s clash between New Zealand and Tonga at Eden Park.
Injured Australian Kangaroos captain Isaah Yeo won the IRL Golden Boot in 2024.