Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards hasn't featured in a representative side since 2016 - but all that looks set to change on Saturday night, with the reliable three-time premiership winner in line for an international debut.
In the wake of Penrith's third-straight title victory, Edwards was initially left out of Mal Meninga's 21-man squad, before being called up to replace the suspended Josh Addo-Carr.
And with star outside back Valentine Holmes also unavailable for the opening clash of the Pacific Championships, the 27-year-old is now slated to line up on the wing against Toa Samoa in Townsville.
Edwards will join club teammates Isaah Yeo and Liam Martin in the Australian side, with star halfback Nathan Cleary ruled out due to a knee injury suffered in the grand final against Brisbane.
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Panthers star Dylan Edwards reacts to Australian call-up
In an interview with Channel Nine just days out from his first taste of the green and gold jumper, Edwards was quizzed on whether or not he'd given up hope of earning a rep jumper after years of toiling away in the NRL.
“Not really – I hadn’t really thought too much about it," he said.
"I think playing in these sorts of sides are quite a product of success at club land too. I’m fortunate enough to be in a really good side back there and I thought if ever the day comes, it will come and I’ll try to take it with both hands.
"It’s nice for the fans to get behind me."
But when he laces up the boots and pulls on the Kangaroos jumper this weekend in a new position, Edwards will potentially be tasked with marking Panthers teammate Brian To'o.
“He can play left or right too, it depends what side he lines up," Edwards said.
"He will probably try and run over me at some stage, but I’m looking forward to that.
"He’s pretty slippery and he’s a hard man to tackle, but I’ll be doing my best."
