In news which will delight Wallabies coach Robbie Deans, Australia's first-choice inside centre emerged unscathed from a 33-minute cameo in yesterday's ACT club rugby union grand final.

McCabe started the match for Wests in his first game back from stress fractures in his leg, which have forced him to miss the opening three games of the Rugby Championship.

While he had few opportunities to make an impact, the 24-year-old was pleased to have got a run under his belt in his first game since July.

McCabe will rejoin the Wallabies squad today in the hope of being ushered back into the national team for the clash with the Pumas on the Gold Coast.

''If I get a chance I think I'm ready,'' McCabe said. ''I got a taste for it and got a bit of a blow, but it would've been nice to do a bit more. Physically I feel fine.''

McCabe's return to fitness couldn't come at a better time, with outside-centre Rob Horne ruled out for the rest of the season with a torn hamstring sustained in Sydney club rugby yesterday.

McCabe trained with the Wallabies squad last week, but was released from camp to gain valuable game time.

Wallabies medical staff allowed him to play half an hour for Wests in the John I Dent Cup decider against the Tuggeranong Vikings.

The Vikings dominated the first half, giving McCabe little chance to showcase his trademark hard running and ability to bust through tackles.

After trailing 19-3 at the break, Wests scored back-to-back tries while McCabe was on the bench to get within two points before the Vikings rallied to claim the title with a 29-17 victory.