The 34-year-old, 116-cap utility back hasn’t graced the international scene since August 2016, but is in line to take on Warren Gatland’s side in Cardiff.
Ashley-Cooper has been one of the most experienced and talented backs in world rugby over the last decade and believes the Welsh capital is the perfect place for a comeback.
“Wales are a class team and we respect them a lot as an outfit. As previous encounters have proved, it’s always a great Test match against them,” he said.
“The Principality Stadium is a great venue. With the roof closed it’s always an entertaining, expansive game. It’s really exciting for me to be back in the Wallaby environment and I was not expecting this.
“Michael Cheika rang me a couple of weeks ago when I was in Japan and he discussed the potential of me coming back into the squad and coming on tour.
“I told him I would jump at the opportunity. It has been a couple of years, but I am stoked to be back. For me it is not so much about playing in a fourth World Cup, it’s about winning a World Cup.
“I have had three cracks and there was just a bit of fire in the stomach after 2015. I moved overseas to France before going back to Japan, but still with that goal or ambition of winning a World Cup.”
Australia have won their last 13 matches with Wales and last tasted defeat to Gatland’s side in 2008.
Cheika’s side had an inconsistent Rugby Championship campaign, but believe they can make significant strides to improve on their northern hemisphere tour.
“As a team we need to improve, get better every day, and it’s not long before the World Cup now so it’s time for us to do that,” said Ashley-Cooper.
“There have been some light conversations about where I’m going to play.
“I’ve only been here a week so I’ve been given some time to settle in. There is a Test match around the corner and I have no preferred position, it’s about where I can contribute.
“I’ve always been proud of being a utility back and that’s where I can add a lot of value. I’m absolutely ready to step in this weekend if needed.”
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