Former British and Irish Lions captain Gavin Hastings expects to see Jonny Wilkinson in the fabled red jersey on this summer’s tour to Australia.
The former England fly-half has been in imperious form with European champions Toulon this season but declined an initial approach from Lions head coach Warren Gatland citing club commitments and his weary body.
Yet Wilkinson remains on standby should he be required and with just two No 10s in the 37-man squad Ireland’s Jonathan Sexton and England’s Owen Farrell Hastings anticipates the 33-year-old former Newcastle fly-half will be a late arrival in Australia in time for the first Test in Brisbane on June 22.
“I think it’s likely to happen,” Hastings said. “If Sexton and Farrell can do well and they play well and they’re able to keep fit, perhaps the prospect of Jonny coming out will recede.
“The shorter the time that Jonny has in Australia, the better, I think, the chances are for the Lions. The longer he spends there, I’m not convinced his body will want to be training every single day.
“The way he is, so intense and thorough in his preparation, he doesn’t need to play in any provincial matches. What matters is the Lions winning two out of three Tests.
“If ever there was an occasion made for Jonny, it would be coming out the week before the first Test and having a role to play.”