Census Johnston will get to play in his third World Cup only months after announcing his retirement from Test rugby when he was called up to the Samoan squad on Friday.

The 34-year-old 51-times capped prop – who called time on his international career in April on the back of signing an extension to his contract with French giants Toulouse – gets his chance as Leicester Tigers Logovi’i Mulipola is injured.

“Huge honour to be called back into @manusamoa squad for the World Cup. Looking forward to joining the team Monday,” tweeted Johnston, who played in the 2007 and 2011 editions.

The New Zealand-born Johnston, who has won three French titles, two with Toulouse and one with Biarritz as well as a European Cup with his present side, is still expected to face Pau on Sunday.