Issac Luke is back in the Kiwis squad, determined to make the most of this opportunity to represent his country.
The 31-year-old from Hawera was omitted from the national side for the World Cup last year, but a return to form in 2018 has led to a recall for this weekend's Denver test against England.
Luke was one of only three Warriors included in Michael Maguire's 19-man squad on Sunday, alongside Peta Hiku and new cap Ken Maumalo.
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Shaun Johnson, Tohu Harris and Gerard Beale were unavailable for selection, while Adam Blair was suspended.
Luke previously played under Maguire at the South Sydney Rabbitohs, where the pair won the 2014 NRL title.
Luke said he couldn't wait to wear the Kiwi on his chest again.
"I'm just happy to be part of the camp, but however long I've been a part of the Kiwis, I've let my actions do the talking," Luke said.
"I'm humble to be here. Obviously, I've worked a lot with 'Madge' [Maguire], and we've formed a pretty tight relationship over the years.
"To be a part of this camp here is cool."
The test against England on Sunday morning (NZ time) will be the first for Maguire as coach of New Zealand, after he was officially appointed last month.
Just three forwards and five backs have returned from the New Zealand squad eliminated in the World Cup quarter-finals seven months ago.
Maguire will be counting on Luke's experience as he is the most- capped player in the team with 42 tests to his name.
Only five players boast more than 10 test caps in a squad that features seven uncapped players.
Maguire confirmed to Newshub last week that he wouldn’t appoint a captain for the game, instead opting for a leadership group that would likely be led by Blair
With Blair now unavailable, Luke seems the logical choice to step up.
"To be able to be part of the [leadership] group that Michael's going to put together, we're all going to play a big part steering this team around and I'm looking forward to it," Luke added.
Newshub.
Join us for live updates of the test at 7.30am on Sunday.
