Wilkinson eager for challenge

England flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson is itching for the start of the British and Irish Lions' tour of New Zealand after being called up late following his recovery from injury. Wilkinson will set off with Clive Woodward's squad next week after 17 months of...

England flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson is itching for the start of the British and Irish Lions' tour of New Zealand after being called up late following his recovery from injury.

Wilkinson will set off with Clive Woodward's squad next week after 17 months of frustration with shoulder, arm and knee injuries.

"Physically I feel fantastic and I am desperate to get out there," Wilkinson said. "What I am is very, very fresh unlike a lot of the other players but I feel completely ready for the rigours of test rugby."

The Lions play Argentina in Cardiff on May 23 before departing for New Zealand with the first of three tests scheduled for June 25.

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