All Blacks flanker Matt Todd has admitted his recall to the side was a shock, having agreed to a deal to play in Japan ruling him out of selection contention.
Todd, 30, was given special dispensation from New Zealand Rugby to make his return to the All Blacks' squad, having withdrawn himself from selection by joining Japanese side Panasonic Wild Knights.
However, a season ending injury to Sam Cane saw NZR break their own rules to bring Todd back into the fold.
Speaking to media in Tokyo, Todd admitted he didn't think he'd be back in Steve Hansen's plans.
"I thought when I came up here, it just wasn't an option to come back," Todd began.
"A little bit of a surprise when my agent rang me, and it got given the green light, but I guess a pleasant surprise at the same time.
"I nice to know that when I came over here I wasn't completely forgotten about."
Todd will start on the bench for the All Blacks against the Wallabies this weekend, with Ardie Savea to play in the number seven jersey.
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