Threat to All Blacks

At Suncorp Stadium, he took on the might of the second-best team in the world and looked right at home.

“It was good to be back out there,” said Pocock, who scored Australia’s crucial second try. “Good to start off with a win but I think they are not No 2 in the world for nothing. They will be a much improved team in Melbourne. We have to be better in the second game for sure.”

Pocock’s toughness was evident at Suncorp Stadium but it’s also been noticeable for the Brumbies this season — especially recently in Dunedin, where he was given a torrid time by the Highlanders. In his seven games for the Brumbies, he has made 70 out of 73 attempted tackles.

Against Ireland in the No 6 jersey, he made 15 of 17. He was penalised twice, costing the Wallabies six points.

Reflecting on his time away in Africa, he said: “There was a fair bit going on over there — it was certainly a break.

“You thought about it from time to time and I guess you think about what an incredible opportunity it is to represent Australia and as an immigrant, I’m so grateful for the opportunities I’ve had.

“So to be able to pull on the green and gold and represent Australia and get out there and do your best and know that you’re also representing so many people in Zimbabwe who have been part of the journey, it’s a huge honour and something I certainly don’t take for granted.”