Dual international Lote Tuqiri will become the first code-crosser to play Test rugby league for Australia a second time after returning from rugby union.

Tuqiri was on Thursday selected to play for the Kangaroos for the first time in eight years after being chosen in Australia's Four Nations team to meet Papua New Guinea on Sunday.

The former Wallabies star was picked on the wing, nudging out St George Illawarra flyer Darius Boyd, for Australia's tournament opener at Parramatta Stadium.

Tuqiri was only a late inclusion in the Kangaroos squad after Parramatta star Jarryd Hayne was ruled out with injury.

The 31-year-old's strong form in his NRL comeback season with the Wests Tigers was rewarded by his club coach Tim Sheens and national selectors.

Tuqiri - along with Brent Tate, Willie Tonga, Nate Myles and Tom Learoyd-Lahrs - is one of five new faces in Sheens' team following his most recent Test in charge, the 12-8 win over New Zealand in May.

The Fiji-born winger made his Test debut in 2001 but converted to rugby union in late 2002, going on to play eight seasons with the Wallabies and NSW Waratahs before crossing back this year.

As well as Clive Churchill Medal winner Boyd, Sheens has also left Sydney Roosters revelation Todd Carney out of his team.

Melbourne halfback Cooper Cronk was chosen to partner Darren Lockyer in the halves while Newcastle captain Kurt Gidley was included on a six-man bench as the utility player.

Queensland back-rower Myles was selected in the front-row, pushing Maroons teammates David Shillington and Matt Scott to the bench.

Kangaroos: Billy Slater, Brett Morris, Brent Tate, Willie Tonga, Lote Tuqiri, Darren Lockyer (capt), Cooper Cronk, Paul Gallen, Sam Thaiday, Luke Lewis, Petero Civoniceva, Cameron Smith, Nate Myles. Reserves: David Shillington, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Anthony Watmough, Kurt Gidley, Darius Boyd, Matt Scott (two to be omitted).

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP