Another player to be ruled out is Semi Radradra who is yet to face court for assault charges.

The decision to snub Fifita came from a discussion last week between NRL boss Todd Greenberg, ARL chief John Grant and Meninga.

The Cronulla prop is currently under investigation by the NRL for his links to convicted one-punch killer Kieran Loveridge.

Fifita wore an armband during matches this season displaying the letters “FKL” which was believed to stand for either “Free Kieran Loveridge” of “For Kieran Loveridge”.

The 26-year-old was forced to apologise through a club statement, however, when quizzed on the matter just 10 days ago said he had no regrets regarding the issue. 

“I support the decision (on Fifita),” Meninga said.

“I believe the Australian jersey needs to be held in high esteem both on and off the field. A line has to be drawn in the sand.

“He is one of the best forwards in the game but you get selected on more than ability.”

Seven debutants were named with Shannon Boyd, Jake Friend, Tyson Frizell, Valentine Holmes, James Maloney, Matt Moylan and Justin O’Neill all set to don the green and gold for the first time.

Veterans Corey Parker and Paul Gallen have missed out on a Kangaroos swansong after being left out of the 24-man squad.

“They have been great servants but we are moving in a new direction and have picked the best players playing at the moment,” Meninga said.

“We discussed the loyalty but we have to move on into the future.

“I spoke to Corey and he was obviously disappointed…I spoke to Gal (Gallen) this morning and he is a true professional and took it on the chin.”

Another surpising omission was Tigers fullback James Tedesco who was arguably the best fullback in the game in 2016.

“He (Tedesco) was very close,” Meninga said. “We decided to go with Josh Dugan and Matt Moylan.”

Kangaroos squad
Cameron Smith (c)
Darius Boyd
Shannon Boyd
Boyd Cordner
Cooper Cronk
Josh Dugan
Blake Ferguson
Jake Friend
Tyson Frizell
Matt Gillett
Valentine Holmes
Greg Inglis
David Klemmer
James Maloney
Josh Mansour
Trent Merrin
Michael Morgan
Matt Moylan
Justin O'Neill
Josh Papalii
Matt Scott 
Sam Thaiday
Johnathan Thurston
Aaron Woods