Ireland‑born Ian McKinley has been called into Italy's squad for their summer Tests ‑ six years after losing his sight in his left eye.
McKinley, now 27, was on Leinster's books when he suffered the serious injury after sustaining an accidental boot to his eye.
He was forced to retire but made a playing return in Italy thanks to special protective goggles.
McKinley has played 21 games in this season's Pro12 and Challenge Cup.
He will be in a 44 man squad for the Tests against Scotland, Fiji and Australia.
In a tweet on Wednesday, McKinley said that he been "overwhelmed by the reaction" to his inclusion in Italy's squad.
Fiji will take on Italy on the 17th of June at the ANZ Stadium.
