'I'll never say no': James Tedesco hopeful of Kangaroos call despite State of Origin snub

James Tedesco remains hopeful of retaining his role as Kangaroos captain, despite being overlooked for selection in this year's State of Origin series.

The champion Roosters fullback has been at the forefront of the representative arena for more than half a decade, but dropped out of the Blues team this year as new coach Michael Maguire looked towards the future with Dylan Edwards.

The decision from Maguire paid off as NSW took out the series, with their only loss of the series coming when Tedesco was in the No.1 jumper due to Edwards' injury.

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Tedesco has captained his country for the past two years, including at the World Cup in 2022, but could fall behind the likes of Edwards and Kalyn Ponga in the pecking order.

However, when quizzed on his desire to don the green and gold in this year's Pacific Championships, the 32-year-old sent a message to coach Mal Meninga.

"Yeah definitely," Tedesco told 9News Sydney.

"I've been really happy with how I've been playing this year and again, it's up to Mal what he decides there. I'll never say no to representing Australia, it's the highest honour in the game and it's been a big privilege for me to captain the past two years.

"We'll see what happens, but if I can put my best foot forward in this finals series, hopefully I'll get another call."

Tedesco has been among the Tricolours' best players this season, scoring 14 tries and producing 21 try assists to help secure a top-four finish for his side, and is now set for a huge showdown against Edwards in the first week of the finals series.

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Such is the form of Tedesco that he could be a genuine contender for the Dally M Medal - an award he won in 2019, which is the last time the Roosters won a title.

While many are writing off the Chooks due to their recent injury struggles, Tedesco is adamant the side can still make a dent and push for a premiership.

"I feel very confident with where our team is at the moment," he said.

"Everyone is talking about injuries and what not, but I'm really confident with that squad we have and our best footy is still ahead of us.

"I don't think we're wounded - we are missing guys, but I have so much confidence in our squad and our depth."