Luscombe already has one cap to his name

Courted by Graham Henry for a move to Wales, the switch was scuppered in a media backlash against foreign imports.

But Newport benefactor Tony Brown offered the then 18-year-old a position in Wales - working in his factory!

Three years on, Luscombe has worked himself through the Gwent rugby ranks to win a place in the Wales squad.

Wales' Six Nations squad

"Graham Henry wanted to bring in five youngsters from South Africa, New Zealand and Australia who could qualify for Wales through residency," Luscombe told BBC Sport Wales.

"The Welsh public and media weren't happy with that and the offer was withdrawn, but Tony Brown stepped in.

"Newport had a full quota of foreign players at the time, so I had to work in his office furniture factory, graduate through the youth ranks and earn a club contract.

"I could have stayed in South Africa and played for Western Province, but I wanted to experience the Welsh way of life.

To play for Wales again would be such a privilege Hal Luscombe

"It's worked out really well, I've been received so warmly by the people of Newport and of Wales generally."

Luscombe already has one Welsh cap to his name, coming on as a very late replacement against Scotland last summer in a World Cup warm-up game.

Wales coach Steve Hansen says the youngster's versatility has helped win him a squad place, as he is able to cover centre, wing and full-back.

But the player himself is determined not to be sidelined as a bit-part player.

"I'm still only 22, so in some ways it's just good to be a part of the squad," said Luscombe.

"It's going to be difficult to break into this Wales back line, but ultimately I have to force myself forward.

"To play for Wales again would be such a privilege."