Hunt was always likely to be part of Michael Cheika's wider plans throughout the Test winter, but the injury to Kurtley Beale has suddenly thrust the former rugby league and AFL player into the coach's forward plans.

Like he did last year, Cheika will take a bloated squad to Caloundra for a week of pain before trimming it for the camp proper back in Brisbane ahead of June 11's Test opener against England.

Included in that group will be Hunt, who stands a strong chance of making the final cut if he can impress Cheika in what should be another torrid week of physical work ahead of the first showdown with Eddie Jones at Suncorp Stadium.

Hunt has been in solid form for the Reds this season and has improved quickly on the back of consistent rugby. His first year at Ballymore was decimated by the drugs scandal then a series of injuries that greatly curtailed hs playing time.

He could find a spot in the centres, but his selection also gives Cheika a genuine backline utility option and a rugged defender against England, who have promised to arrive with all guns blazing in Brisbane.

His inclusion could be construed as controversial by those who felt he should have been sacked from the Reds last season but Cheika has always been a supporter and helped guide Hunt throughout his legal dramas in 2015.

The squad goes into camp on Sunday.