Wallabies lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto is energised about his recall as he look to earn his way back into the side.
Salakaia-Loto was the main inclusion in Les Kiss' first squad as coach, returning after missing the Nations Championship.
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The Reds enforcer featured significantly under Joe Schmidt in 2024 and 2025; however, he was a surprise exclusion for the Tests against Ireland, France and Italy.
The 29-year-old refused to be bogged down by his absence, returning to clubland with Queensland side Souths, along with a stint with the Barbarians against South Africa.
Sporting buzz-cut silver hair, Salakaia-Loto could see how it was a 'blessing in disguise' amid growing calls for his return.
“For me, about two months ago, I just had my third daughter, so the silver lining for me was just spending time at home and being present with my kids, being able to wrestle the older two and give mum a bit of a break," he told reporters.
“It was a blessing in disguise just to be at home with my kids and be there for probably the most important weeks when everything's fresh and making sure that my wife was all good.
“Disappointing, but there are more things to life than just being selected for a team.”
It came off the back of one of his best Super Rugby seasons, named in the Team of the Tournament alongside Hurricanes lock Warner Dearns.
Ironically, the two could face each other on his return, with Salakaia-Loto's last start coming against Japan almost nine months ago.
“I was at peace with what I produced throughout the Super Rugby season and then you don't always get what you deserve so it is what it is," he said.
“If I was to still stress over things that there's no point stressing over, then it would affect what I do off the field or away from it. It's nice to be named in that, but it doesn't guarantee you anything. It doesn't really mean anything.”
Salakaia-Loto credits a bulkier frame for his growth in 2026, playing at close to 138 kg. This has now been trimmed down to around 133 kg, trying to strike that balance.
“It doesn't take much for me to put weight on, I could probably put five kilos on in one night. That was intentional, to be able to play the type of style that I want to play this year, and I thought that I was able to do that.
“To be honest, I came back to pre-season pretty heavy but when I played a few trial games, it wasn’t too bad so I thought I may as well stay here at this weight and it worked out.
“I’m lighter now after a good little block at Ballymore so we’ll see how it goes.”
The lock understands his return is not guaranteed, praising the work of club teammate Josh Canham and Jeremy Williams as he fights for a spot in the 23.
"'Jez' and Canham have done a unreal job and I'm not expecting any change anytime soon, especially the way that they're playing," he added.
