Xavier Willison has earned selection in New Zealand's World Cup squad after a strong season, having made his Test debut in last year's Pacific Championships.
The tournament begins this Thursday night, with the Kiwis facing Australia.
"I never thought that I would be here (in a World Cup)," Willison told CODE Sports.
Brisbane are expected to retain the 24-year-old forward, despite his recent move to the management team of Ahmad Merhi, who also represents Souths-bound Payne Haas.
The change prompted speculation Willison might follow Haas out of the Broncos, but CODE Sports reported that Willison had verbally told the club he intended to stay.
His current contract runs through the end of next season, and Broncos officials reportedly do not expect him or his representatives to negotiate with rival clubs.
The two sides have discussed a three-to-four-year extension worth nearly $4 million, though Willison is not expected to sign before the free-agency window opens on November 1.
Last month, he won Brisbane's Paul Morgan Medal as the club's player of the year, ending Haas's run of dominance in the award.
With Haas leaving, Willison is set to lead the forward pack alongside captain Pat Carrigan and new signing Mitch Barnett.