Charron, 37, scored a fabulous try in Canada's memorable victory over Wales in 1993, and underwent complete knee reconstructive surgery on June 8 if this year. But Charron's dedication to return to action saw him pushing the limits of medical advice, and now the eight-hour-a-day training and rehabilitation program he undertook has borne fruit.

"I didn't foresee this possibility when I damaged my knee, but thanks to a great surgeon and great physiotherapists I'm ready to go ahead of schedule," he said. Canada and Wales do battle in Melbourne's Telstra Dome at 0900 (BST) on Sunday.