Reds winger Digby Ioane says that he was initially surprised to be part of Robbie Deans' first Wallabies squad but he is going all out to make the most of his call up.
Ioane had a good season with the Force in 2006 but moved back to Queensland in 2008.
New Zealand born Ioane is now 22 and he endured an interrupted Super 14 campaign with injury and suspension limiting him to just four appearances for the Reds.
Deans however saw enough in Ioane in those few matches to warrant another call up.
Digby Ioane made his debut for Australia where he scored a try (pictured) at the Suncorp Stadium against Wales in June last year and was nominated for an IRB award in 2006.
Ioane is eyeing a place in the Wallabies outfit but the man who is the youngest of 10 siblings is also happy to be back in Melbourne where he was raised.
"It's great to be back home in front of a home crowd. I am really looking forward to this weekend's game," Ioane told Sportal after training in Melbourne.
"I've got a massive family. Heaps of cousins, heaps of brothers and sisters so it should be good."
Deans will reveal his first Wallaby team on Wednesday with Ioane fighting for a place on the bench.
"Fingers crossed, anything could happen. The main thing is I am just happy to be back in Melbourne," Ioane said.
"It's a great place to play footy and Melbourne people get right behind the footy."
"Opportunities only come once so you need to take them. It's a good opportunity to be in the Australian squad."
"I have just got to use what I have got."
"I am coming along great. I haven't been playing footy much this year and it's great to be back in Melbourne and hang out with my family. It will be great to play in front of my family."
One man who seems guaranteed is place in the team is Western Force fly half Matt Giteau and he said he was also excited to be playing in Melbourne.
"It's great. I've said it before, Melbourne may not know too much about rugby but they love their sport. And they certainly come out and support the Wallabies," Giteau said.
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