Luke Lewis is set to make an inspirational return from his battle with cancer for Australia in the end of season Test against New Zealand.

Former Penrith captain Lewis has been included in the Kangaroos train-on squad for the October 13 match against the Kiwis in Townsville after being given the all-clear following a thyroid cancer scare.

Lewis, who will join Cronulla for the next three seasons, underwent surgery to have his thyroid removed last month.

He has played 12 Tests for Australia.

Meanwhile Brisbane pair Sam Thaiday and Justin Hodges will miss the match due to injury.

Thaiday, who has been a regular feature of Kangaroos sides since 2009 will miss the match following shoulder surgery on Wednesday.

Hodges is out due to a recurring back injury.

Lewis, Thaiday and Hodges were all part of the Kangaroos side which defeated the Kiwis 20-12 in the Anzac Test in April.