A Test debut two years in the making was definitely worth the wait, according to newly-capped Wallaby Karmichael Hunt.
Hoping to win his first international start in 2015, soon after switching to his third football code, Hunt looked to have blown his chance.
Firstly it was his involvement in a cocaine scandal that led to legal trouble and suspension from the Queensland Reds and then a troublesome groin injury that eventually required surgery.
But running out for the first time in Australia's 22-point win over Fiji in Melbourne made it all worthwhile.
The 30-year-old proudly wore his Wallabies cap, numbered 905, post game and said his age and battle to climb to the pinnacle of rugby made him appreciate it all the more.
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"I'm probably savouring the moment a bit more now," Hunt said.
"Being more mature and just understanding that to get to this point has been a hard journey and it wasn't guaranteed with everything that went on so I'm really going to let it soak in and be present with it because it was highly unlikely a few years back so to be here now is a dream come true."
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has always backed Hunt and showed his belief again by starting him at inside centre despite his inexperience in the position.
Hunt repaid him with a confident performance, linking well with five-eighth Bernard Foley to put wingers Israel Folau and Henry Speight through for two tries apiece while his defence was solid.
Hunt admitted he was out of his "comfort zone" playing at No.12 and he was relieved to have performed well.
"The pace was a bit hot for me early, obviously the nerves had a bit to do with it and I just wanted to get some early touches and to get my groove.
"It wasn't a perfect performance, but I'll be better for the run."
The debut meant Hunt joined Folau to form an exclusive club of athletes to have played three football codes at the top level.
They played together in the NRL at the Brisbane Broncos, Queensland State of Origin and the Kangaroos, and then against each other in the AFL.
"It's a unique tandem when it comes to sporting history," Hunt said.
"Some of the best times we've had are playing together at the Broncos and since then we've been opposite each other so to be on the same field together was fantastic."
