Ayoola Erinle's most prized possession is the tea-pot he was awarded for winning two episodes of Countdown in 2003 - that could change.

The powerhouse Biarritz centre is poised to end a remarkable week - and a roller-coaster year - by winning his precious first England cap against Australia.

Twelve months ago, Erinle was on loan at Championship club Nottingham - having failed to break into the Leicester team and considering whether he had any future in the game.

Erinle's England ambitions had long since been extinguished. But like Jonny Wilkinson and Steve Thompson, his career has been revitalised by a move to France.

The 29-year-old was called into the England squad last Saturday, initially to provide injury cover, but suddenly found himself on the bench and preparing to face the Wallabies.

"If I am brutally honest, my prospects of playing for England were a dream that had been and gone. You try to hold on to it - but as time goes on, it starts to fade away," said Erinle.

"When I went to Biarritz I just thought. 'At least I will be playing rugby and enjoying myself'.

"Before that I was in a pretty dark place. I was questioning what the point was - but thank God I am in the position now.

"The Leicester coaches were apologetic about the fact I wasn't really given a chance, and I had to make a decision. The opportunity came up at Biarritz, and I took it with both hands.

"I hope if I get the chance on Saturday to come off the bench I will vindicate the coaches' decision to bring me into the 22."

Erinle is relishing life in France, where a run of games in the Top 14 has rebuilt his shattered confidence.

"It is everything you envisage," he said.

"The French lifestyle is interesting - very laid-back - but they are hugely passionate about their rugby.

"They haven't changed me as a player; they have just made me more confident by playing me week in and week out. I have had my longest run of games in quite a while."

Erinle's Countdown appearance came while he was still at Wasps.

"I used to watch Countdown and play along. Then one day the email address came up to apply, and my housemate said I should go for it," he recalled.

"I came through the audition - and before I knew it, they asked if I would go on the show. I had to ask the coaches Shaun (Edwards) and Gats [Warren Gatland] if I could go on!

"When it was aired, we all got on the team bus early so the squad could watch it. Luckily, I won!"