James O'Connor is back in the Australia fold almost three years after his last Wallabies appearance, with Joe Schmidt picking the veteran fly-half in his 36-man squad to face the British and Irish Lions.

James O’Connor wasn’t answering his phone calls, and the Wallabies squad for the British & Irish Lions series was to be announced in an hour. As Australia’s coach dialled the number again from the team’s hotel lobby, he received a tap on the shoulder from James Slipper. “The bloke you’re after is outside,” Slipper revealed.

James O'Connor makes Australia return for British and Irish Lions Test series after Noah Lolesio injury - Veteran fly-half back in Wallabies fold for first time in three years ahead of Brisbane opener