Smith will play his first match for the Wallabies in almost four years when he makes a comeback to international rugby against the Lions in Sydney on Saturday night.

He will reclaim the No7 jersey in the biggest match in Australian rugby since the 2003 World Cup final.

Pocock is still recovering from a knee reconstruction and his absence opened the door for Smith to make a return in gold.

‘‘In many ways it’s hard on Michael Hooper and Liam Gill because they have played well,’’ Pocock told The Canberra Times.

‘‘But George has over 100 Test caps and his ability to read the game, pick his moments ... he’s one of those players who always turns up at the right moment to make the big plays or the the big turnover which can change momentum of games.

‘‘That’s what he brings, a cool head. He handles pressure and he’ll get on with the job.’’

Smith will officially be unveiled in the Wallabies team at 3pm on Thursday.The Wallabies are aiming to hold on to the Tom Richards Cup for another 12 years after winning the 2001 series.

Smith becomes the first Wallaby of the professional era to play in separate series against the Lions.

Had Pocock been fit, Smith would have played a back-up role at best.

Smith only extended his stay with the ACT Brumbies when Pocock ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in March and that made him eligible for Wallabies selection.

Pocock has spent the past month in camp with the Wallabies taking on off-field duties as he continues his nine-month rehabilitation.

Pocock has been doing promotional visits and video analysis to help the team.

Smith also suffered a knee injury in May, but after an original 12-week recovery timeframe was given, the 32-year-old has defied the odds to be back on the field after just seven weeks.‘‘It’s a phenomenal story, it’s such testament to him as a player and athlete that he can have last played for the Wallabies four years ago and then slot straight back into the group,’’ Pocock said.

‘‘Everyone loves having him around, he’s been very good at training and he’ll be good for us in the game.

‘‘He’s hard on the ball and he’s an experienced head. He’ll know how to handle this sort of pressure situations.’’Pocock admitted being on the sideline was frustrating and watching a blockbuster series from the stands, but said the Wallabies were capable of winning the series.

‘‘There’s a real buzz about being here and just to have a ticket to the game will be pretty special.

‘‘Everyone understands just how big this opportunity is for the guys. We’ve done well to get ourselves into this position to retain the Tom Richards Cup and everyone’s pretty excited about that.

‘‘We’re under no illusions that the Lions will bring even more intensity in this last game.‘‘It is frustrating and that’s all part of it, it’s something I have to deal with and focus on getting myself right so down the track I can get out there.’’