Tim Swinson admitted he had given up on his World Cup dream after being forced to undergo ankle surgery.
But the Glasgow lock is now preparing to fight for a place in the team which kicks-off the tournament against Japan in Gloucester on September 23 after head coach Vern Cotter handed him a surprise call-up.
Swinson was so far out of the picture that he was allowed to join his Warriors side on their pre-season tour of Canada.
But after touching down back in Glasgow on Sunday, he was given the shock news that he had been called-up in place of team-mate Rob Harley.
"I'm just blown away by what's happened," admitted the London-born 28-year-old. "Completely flabbergasted.
"I got a call on Sunday when we got back from Canada with Glasgow about one o'clock.
"I'd had a missed call from Vern so thought I better call him back quick. It was a bit of a surprise, especially as I was suffering from a bit of sleep deprivation having not really slept for about 30 hours after playing the Canadians.
"I'd already come to terms with the fact I wouldn't be going to the World Cup after my ankle injury.
"I decided the worst possible thing after my surgery was that I would go back to Glasgow, which isn't actually that bad. I realised the worst case was I'd go back to my club and play some good rugby with my friends. So I wasn't too despondent.
"Luckily now I've been given the chance to come back and play with this World Cup squad.
"I expected absolutely nothing. I didn't even realise I was on the radar.
"So it's a fantastic surprise and I can't wait to prove my worth.
"When I got the call I was shocked. I didn't really know what to say. I'd already organised my week with Glasgow. I'd arranged to meet some friends on Monday night. I called to cancel and they asked why. I had to lie and say, 'no reason'."
Swinson's inclusion surprised many - but none more so than Harley.
However, Swinson said: "I've spoken to Rob. He's one of my good friends in the squad and I'm absolutely gutted for him.
"But I've got to take this opportunity for myself and push forward to get in this squad.
"To be fair, Rob was really happy for me, really supportive. I'm sure he must be hurting but he's a fantastic team-mate and friend."
Source: PA
