Reece Walsh says learning from James Tedesco has been a highlight of Australia's World Cup camp as the pair compete for the fullback role.
"I feel like being in camp with Teddy has been such a blessing for me," Walsh said.
Walsh earned his place after recovering from a high-grade syndesmosis injury suffered playing for Brisbane on August 15.
After ankle surgery, he spoke with coach Kevin Walters in August but received no promise of selection.
Walsh said he committed to doing everything possible to return and did not take a holiday during his rehabilitation.
He credited Broncos rehabilitation staff Lindsay Self and Luke Anning, who helped him during their own holiday breaks.
Walsh said staff had told him the ankle could withstand a knock after tightrope fixation surgery and insertion of a rod.
He took a blow to the same ankle against Cook Islands on Saturday, but played on in Australia's 66-6 win.
Walsh set up five tries and claimed his second man-of-the-match award of the tournament.
Tedesco had impressed in Australia's 36-22 victory over Fiji, a match Walsh missed.
Walsh was widely viewed as slightly ahead for Sunday night's semi-final against Samoa at Allianz Stadium, but said Walters had not indicated his choice.
He said the squad understood that selection was never guaranteed and would support whichever decision the coach made.