The inspirational flanker last played for the Wallabies against the Welsh at Millennium Stadium in late 2012, after taking over the reigns from George Smith as Australia's first choice openside flanker in 2009.
He quickly became one of the Wallabies' and world rugby's most dominant figures, with IRB Player of the Year nominations in consecutive years, the John Eales Medal in 2010 and the honour of captaining his country in 2012.
Now, after being named on the bench by Michael Cheika for the opening clash of the Wallabies 2015 Rugby Championship series against the Springboks, Pocock finally returns to the game's elite level.
Ridiculously excited about pulling on the green and gold again tonight. Thanks for all the support over last few years. #gameday #enjoyment
— David Pocock (@pocockdavid) July 17, 2015
Following a long stint watching on from the sidelines, Pocock told Fairfax Media that he feels like a better player ahead of his return to international rugby.
"The two seasons of rehab, mentally I'm stronger. I've certainly learnt a lot about myself and feel a lot more confident coming back into this environment," Pocock said.
"When you're out, you realise how much of an honour and a privilege it is to be in a camp like this and put on the Wallaby jumper."
The 27-year-old found himself in a positional battle with Wallabies vice-captain Michael Hooper to reclaim his No. 7 jersey, a battle that the younger Waratahs skipper eventually won.
“I just think Michael as the incumbent has had a great season in his Super Rugby,” Cheika told Rugby HQ.
“He’s a leader within the team and for the combination of players that we wanted to put out there this week and the pack that we’ve decided to pick, we feel that Hooper’s the right option for the seven.
“Obviously David Pocock is making his return to international football off the bench this weekend and I’m sure if the two of them get to play together they’ll make sure that they make those moments count.”
In the past few weeks Pocock has left Wallabies fans with no doubt about his commitment to the national team, with a series of excited tweets.
Day off with family tomorrow before we reassemble on Sunday. Incredibly excited about possibility of pulling on the green and gold again.
— David Pocock (@pocockdavid) July 10, 2015Training camp done and dusted. Thanks to all those on the #sunshinecoast who came to the signing session and skills clinic today...
— David Pocock (@pocockdavid) July 10, 2015Big congrats to @stevemoore83 on being named captain and Michael Hooper + @AdamCoopy as vice captains. Big year ahead...
— David Pocock (@pocockdavid) July 6, 2015So excited to be back training with @Wallabies! Solid morning of training to kick things off for 2015... #enjoyment
— David Pocock (@pocockdavid) July 6, 2015