Former Wallaby Pat Howard starts his campaign for an Australian recall when he joins the ACT Brumbies on a two-game tour of New Zealand this week.

Howard's inclusion confirms he will be returning to the Brumbies next year for the Super 12 after a successful stint with English and European champions Leicester. Howard finished his time in England by being named the premiership's player of the year.

The 27-year-old inside-centre is seen as the ideal replacement for former Wallaby Rod Kafer, who is joining Leicester after missing selection in this year's Australian squad.

Howard played 20 Tests for Australia, before heading to England in November of 1997. He is a foundation member of the Brumbies, playing in the first two seasons of Super 12 in 1996 and 1997.

"Paddy Howard's future is going to be with the Brumbies next year and it's good to be able to get him involved for this game," Brumbies coach Eddie Jones said. "As the European player of the year he obviously knows a lot about the Lions and it's a knowledge we will put to good use."

Also named in the 24-man squad is dumped Wallaby backrower Jim Williams, and Super 12 regulars Peter Ryan and Mark Bartholomeusz.

Another interesting selection is Queensland prop Damien Drew. The Brisbane Souths club player struggled to get a look for the Reds with their powerful propping line-up that includes Wallabies Nick Stiles, Glenn Panoho and Fletcher Dyson.

Brumbies squad: Warren Aiken, Mark Bartholomeusz, Joshua Birch, Ben Coutts, Damien Drew, Willie Gordon, Scott Gray, Travis Hall, Pat Howard, Matt Henjak, Julian Huxley, Damian McInally, Tom Murphy, David Palavi, Cameron Pither, David Pusey, Peter Ryan, Radike Samo, Angus Scott, Des Tuiavii, Matthew Weaver, Jim Williams, Joel Wilson, Daniel Vickerman.