World Cup winner Michael Lynagh has admitted he is lucky to be alive after suffering a stroke.
Lynagh, who lifted the Webb Ellis trophy in 1991 during a distinguished career, was rushed to hospital in Brisbane after falling ill during a meal with friends two weeks ago.
The 48-year-old, though, has made a rapid recovery - and despite the sight in his left eye being damaged, neurologist Dr Rob Henderson claims Lynagh's progress has been "amazing".
And having been released from hospital, Lynagh said: "I understand how lucky I am.
"I'm just very, very fortunate. As Rob said to me, 'You haven't just dodged a bullet; you've dodged a cannonball'.
"It's been a tough couple of weeks. I must say, I'm very pleased to be here."
Lynagh, who is based in the UK and currently works for Sky Sports as a pundit, is hopeful that his eyesight will continue to recover.
"My brain has been damaged in certain places," he added.
"Forty-five per cent of sight to the left has been lost, hopefully over time my eyesight will improve."
Lynagh won 72 caps and scored 911 points for Australia, going on to captain the side at the 1995 World Cup, while his club career saw him play for Queensland and then Saracens.
