WORLD Cup hopeful Elliot Dee hopes to start his climb back up the Wales pecking order by impressing at Twickenham on Sunday.

The Dragons hooker will come off the bench for a World XV in their clash against a Barbarians side featuring his Rodney Parade teammate Aaron Wainwright.

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The pair of forwards are blowing away the cobwebs before heading for Wales’ first training camp in the build-up to France 2023.

Dee has been recalled by Warren Gatland after finishing an injury-hit season strongly to get the nod ahead of Dragons teammate Bradley Roberts, who featured in the Six Nations.

The 29-year-old from Newbridge joins Ken Owens, Ryan Elias and Dewi Lake in the World Cup squad – four players battling for three spots.

Dee won the last of his 41 caps against Australia in November 2021 but has got his foot in the door.

South Wales Argus: Elliot Dee with his head in his hands after Wales' defeat to South Africa at the 2019 World CupElliot Dee with his head in his hands after Wales' defeat to South Africa at the 2019 World Cup (Image: PA)

“I'm obviously really happy to have been picked in the extended squad. I've been out of the fold for a while but still feel I have a lot to add,” said the front rower.

“I want to work hard, I am aware that I am a bit down the pecking order after not playing for a while but if I can keep some form then I've got something to add. I just want to knuckle down and make that squad.”

Dee was on the comeback trail from a knee operation, which was slotted in after he suffered a broken collarbone in October, during the Six Nations but has been recalled by Gatland.

He earned the trust of the head coach in his first spell in charge, featuring in 29 of 31 possible Tests up to the third place play-off against New Zealand in 2019.

“I enjoyed working under Gats,” said the Dragons man. “He creates a really good environment and builds self-belief in players. I know this camp will be about working hard and I am keen to show what I can do.”

Dee will link up with his international teammates with a spring in his step after picking up some top tips from some of the best in the game.

He has spent the week learning from legendary World Cup-winning coach Steve Hansen and training alongside the likes of Charles Piutau, Semi Radradra, Bill Mata and Nick Phipps.

South Wales Argus: Dragons hooker Elliot DeeDragons hooker Elliot Dee (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“I was really excited when I had the call,” said Dee, “I had a bit of a tough start to the season but feel I that I finished off pretty well.

“I was happy with the way things were going so it was nice to get the call to come and play with some fantastic players.

“There is some unbelievable talent in the squad and I feel privileged and lucky to have been asked to play in what should be great game on Sunday.

“The biggest message we have had coming into camp is that we are here to have a bit of fun, make some memories and have a good time but we've also got a job to do. The Baa Baas will look to do the same and it should be a brilliant game.”