Kiwis second rower Kevin Proctor says he's learned some invaluable life lessons from the fallout of his 2017 drug scandal.
Proctor and fellow New Zealand representative Jesse Bromwich were allegedly caught purchasing and using cocaine outside a Canberra nightclub in April 2017, following the 30-12 loss to Australia.
It led to the duo being banned from the 2017 World Cup and having an 18-month hiatus from the squad - a punishment that Proctor told TVNZ1's Te Karare gave him time to reflect.
"I just don't take [putting on the jersey] for granted anymore," the 21-Test Kiwi said said.
"I know it's not ideal to happen and it's not the best thing to happen but I've learned my lesson and I think I've come out the other side a better person for it."
The 30-year-old made a return to the Kiwis last year against the Kangaroos and featured on the team's end-of-year tour to England.
Jesse Bromwich and Kevin Proctor have both been recalled to the Kiwis' squad.
But now, his focus is on making the squad for this year's clash with Mate Ma'a Tonga in June.
"I didn't get a chance to play in that first one so I'm really excited, if I get a chance to represent New Zealand and play against Tonga because I know they're a proud country and they'll sell out the stadium."
Proctor will get a chance to make his case tomorrow night when his Gold Coast Titans take on the Warriors at Auckland's Mount Smart Stadium.
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