Four-time Australian representative Braith Anasta says the Kangaroos' soft run through the finals could hamper their ability to win back the rugby league World Cup.
Anasta told SportsFan's Clubhouse he still expected the Aussies to win, but said they would have been much better placed had they played a tough semi final before the grand final.
"I think the lead-in has been bad," Anasta said, referring to Australia's 62-0 drubbing of the USA in the quarter finals and the 64-0 demolition of Fiji in the semi final.
"Obviously their defence has been good, and that is a positive sign heading into the final, but to not be tested at the highest level possible, heading into a game against a New Zealand team that was so good against England on the weekend, I think that could go against them."