Queensland Reds fullback Jock Campbell was sitting back nervously last week, hoping his phone didn't ring.
"You don't want a phone call...I was praying it didn't because Joe will call you when you're not a part of the squad and I've had a few of those," Campbell said and smiled.
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That call never came and Campbell was back, dreaming of his first Test since the 2022 Spring Tour.
The 31-year-old has worked his way back into the set-up after a brilliant season for the Queensland Reds, which included a special game-winning try against Moana Pasifika to cap off a stellar year.
"The first time is pretty special but I've been out for a while so it was nice to get the email and not get shot as we call it these days," he explained to reporters.
"It's a good moment for my family, my parents and those who have always supported me over the past four years."
If Campbell gets the nod to face Ireland next week, it'll be over 1,300 days between Wallabies appearances, last featuring off the bench against Wales.
That Spring Tour was Campbell's lone taste of the gold jersey, remaining just out of reach as he featured for Australia A in 2023 and 2024.
Throughout the wait, the fullback never lost faith or desire to reclaim his spot.
"[It was] never beyond reach, Joe's a good communicator, always gave good feedback and I love playing footy so it wasn't really that hard to keep turning up every day at Reds," he reaffirmed.
"It's not like it's a burden to play footy so that's the way I look at it. I love my job and it's just a bonus that I'm here."
During his time out, Campbell has added new elements to his game, improving his pace whilst also fine-tuning his skills as a fill-in flyhalf.
"[Joe's] wanted me to explore that a little bit and Les has given me that opportunity so it's just trying to add extra strings to your bow," he added.
"...It's all about confidence as well, so it becomes a snowball effect where your body's feeling good, you have a few good touches, and then you get a bit more confidence and things start happening."
