'Retired' veteran Johnston handed World Cup farewell

Toulouse

 Census Johnston will get to play in his third World Cup only months after announcing his retirement from Test rugby when he was called up to the Samoan squad on Friday.

 The 34-year-old 51-times capped prop -- who called time on his international career in April on the back of signing an extension to his contract with French giants Toulouse -- gets his chance as Leicester Tigers Logovi'i Mulipola is injured.

 "Huge honour to be called back into @manusamoa squad for the World Cup. looking forward to joining the team Monday," tweeted Johnston, who played in the 2007 and 2011 editions.

 The New Zealand-born Johnston, who has won three French titles, two with Toulouse and one with Biarritz as well as a European Cup with his present side, will first have to come through unscathed in unbeaten Toulouse's Top 14 clash with struggling newboys Pau on Sunday.  

 Johnston could be back with Toulouse by mid-October if Samoa fail to reach the knockout stages -- they have been drawn in Pool B alongside two-time world champions South Africa, Scotland, 2019 hosts Japan and the United States.

 The tournament -- in which the All Blacks are the defending champions -- runs from September 18 to October 31 in England, although a few games are being played in Wales.