Will Skelton was just 21 when he pulled on the NSW Waratahs jersey and tackled the British & Irish Lions during a memorable 2013 Series.
Now aged 33, Skelton is a four-time European Champion - twice with La Rochelle and twice with Saracens - and boasts multiple Top 14 gongs and Premiership titles to go with a memorable Waratahs Super Rugby crown.
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Yet these highlights pale in comparison to what the towering lock could yet achieve 12 years on from his first taste of Lions rugby.
"I didn't understand the magnitude of the [Lions] tour as I do now with all the experience I've had. It's a massive occasion for rugby and especially rugby in Australia," Skelton told reporters.
"[Facing the Lions] would be the pinnacle … it's very special and a lot of players have been putting their hand up to try and play in those games.
With a strong crop of Australian locks lighting up Super Rugby Pacific through 2025, Skelton's selection was never guaranteed and ongoing injuries through the Top 14 season threatened to derail his Test return.
However, at 203cm and 145kg, Skelton remains an ace up Australia's sleeve against the physical Flying Fijians.
Now, La Rochelle's early exit from the Top 14 season has fast-tracked Skelton's bid to don the gold jersey in Newcastle - and beyond.
"I don't think you're ever sure [about selection]. You can have conversations with the coaches throughout that time, but you never know," Skelton admitted.
"It's probably the first time in a while that I've been selected in a squad and been able to relish that moment beforehand.
"So that's a really cool feeling and to be able to prep really well with the boys in the first campaign of 2025, that's really special and I feel I'll keep that close to my heart."
Speaking with reporters on Thursday, Skelton also shared his excitement to see "tough bugger" Nick Champion de Crespigny - a former Shute Shield teammate and Top 14 rival - named Australia's 36-man squad to face Fiji.
"I played with him at Sydney Uni actually. At training he'd always put shots on, so I'll be watching out for him in camp and hopefully he doesn't hurt me before the games come," Skelton joked.
"He's always has that drive. He was always a worker .… and I saw in France that he had what it took.
"He'd be real physical in those games and his ruck work was outstanding so for him to be back in getting into the squad, it's a really proud moment for him and his family and it's well deserved."
