It's been a long, long time since Karmichael Hunt dominated a game of football.
Eight years to be exact - not since his last season of NRL in 2009 has the code-hopper felt truly comfortable with his surroundings and in his own skin.
Just getting on the park in his five years with the AFL's Gold Coast Suns was an achievement in itself while his move to rugby union two years ago has been hampered by persistent injuries and off-field issues.
Finally, the re-energised Queensland Reds fullback is fit and ready to remind people - and himself - just what he's capable of.
"It's been a while since I've been physically able to play some really good football," Hunt told AAP ahead of Queensland's Super Rugby opener against the Sharks on Friday night.
"I definitely feel like it was an experiment for me down on the Gold Coast and for me to be able to do what I did was an accomplishment.
"But you've got Gary Ablett running around getting 45 touches and K Hunt in the midfield there just scrapping for 14. It's a big difference.
"Now I finally feel like I'm able to do what I can do."
These days, Hunt tips the scales at 97kg - eight kilos more than his AFL playing weight, after taking advice from Reds assistant Brad Thorn to simply eat as much as possible, as often as possible.
That extra heft is already making a huge difference for the 30-year-old, who has been one of the stars of the Reds' first summer under new coach Nick Stiles.
"It's honestly been the pre-season I needed from the start, just to rebuild my system considering I spent five years on the Coast going in the opposite direction," Hunt said.
Out of contract at the end of the year, Hunt needs a good season to not only justify an extension but to also realise his Wallabies dreams.
Coach Michael Cheika is a noted fan and while Hunt's focus is understandably on the Reds, he admits a Test debut is on the agenda.
"It's always on the agenda," he said.
"I talk with Cheik off and on. If we get there, we get there. If not, we'll keep chipping away."
Assuming his form permits, Stiles can see Hunt becoming the catalyst for Israel Folau's long-awaited move to the centres.
"If Izzy goes really well there at 13 for the Waratahs and K kills it from 15, it might be something that Cheika looks at. They've got to try something different," Stiles told AAP.
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