Wright is one of two wildcards accepted into the field of 34 surfers – the other being Bede Durbidge, who fractured his pelvis in the 2015 Pipe Masters.

This announcement is massive for the 26 year-old, who was forced to sit on the sidelines for all of 2016 after suffering a brain injury prior to the 2015 Pipe Masters.

At the time of the accident Wright was in contention for the world title, but was forced to pull out of the event on medical advice when he suffered concussion after being battered by waves. Since then he has continued his rehabilitation to get back in the water and on the board.

Wright's acceptance of the wildcard position is still subject to medical evaluation and clearance for competition prior to the start of the season. He only jumped back on a short board in June and his ongoing recovery may open the door for another surfer

Owen’s sister and current world champion Tyler Wright headlines the 17- strong female circuit, which also includes Gerroa’s Sally Fitzgibbons – who finished the year in eighth in the world rankings.