In another world, Wallabies back Josh Flook would be in the north of Italy preparing to play for Benetton, not in the Bledisloe cauldron.
Instead, the Queenslander is set for his first Test appearance of the year - and first against New Zealand - after being named on the bench for Australia's final Rugby Championship clash at Optus Stadium.
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Flook has had an injury-affected season, playing just four games in 2025, and was unveiled as part of a Reds quartet seconded to Benetton for the URC season including Louis Werchon and Richie Asiata, who debuted for them last week.
Ironically, injury would bring a halt to these plans as Flook has found himself in the Wallabies camp as cover for the majority of the Test season.
"It was always kind of just based off whether or not I was in the Wallabies squad," Flook explained.
"It was set up between the Reds and Benetton, their relationship there, and due to the fact that I was injured for the majority of the year, unfortunately, it was just an opportunity for me to potentially go and play some game time, similar to what a few of the boys have done in the NPC.
"I was lucky enough to get called in here and I've loved every moment. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
"The only reason I was going across there was to potentially get some game time and put my best foot forward to be included in this squad."
Flook has stayed focused on honing his craft to break into the matchday 23, which has remained settled throughout the season.
However, a string of backline injuries has given the versatile Flook his chance to make a difference in one of the biggest games of the year.
"Joe was just talking to me about just putting my best foot forward in training," Flook said.
"He was giving me some little work-ons, defensively and attack-wise, but he said to all the boys, the best possible way you can train is the best way you can get picked in the team.
"So I've just been focused on putting my best foot forward on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday training sessions to try and breach my way into the team."
