British and Irish Lions captain Brian O'Driscoll said on Monday the addition of Jonny Wilkinson in the squad to face the All Blacks was a "big boost" to his side's chances of winning in New Zealand.
Wilkinson became on Sunday the 45th member of the squad after satisfying coach Sir Clive Woodward he had recovered fully from the knee ligament injury which threatened his hopes of making a second Lions tour.
The England fly-half, who has not played international rugby for 18 months because of injury since landing the winning drop-goal against Australia in the 2003 World Cup final, looked in fine form despite being on the losing side in Newcastle's Premiership wildcard play-off defeat against Gloucester on Sunday.
PHOTO: AP
That was his third game back following his latest injury problem and O'Driscoll, who played alongside Wilkinson on the Lions tour of Australia four years ago, said he was delighted to have the master goalkicker in the squad.
"It is fantastic, it's great to have him there. Everyone knows about Jonny's capabilities, what he brings to a side and it is great to have him back in form and playing well," the Ireland captain said.
"Touch wood he is over all his injuries and it is a big boost to the side. Mentally he is a tough player, his skill level is as high as you can get and he is the complete No. 10," center O'Driscoll added. "He controls things well, he is full of confidence and that is what you need.
"It's very exciting. He's an incredibly organized individual. He's got a clear idea of what he wants, he's very structured, he's a very confident guy. He is so good at what he does and he will strengthen the squad now we have four fantastic stand-offs," he said.
Stephen Jones looks to be in pole position for the No. 10 shirt after helming Wales' first Grand Slam in 27 years while Ireland's Ronan O'Gara and England's Charlie Hodgson complete the fly-half quartet.
"It's going to bring the competition levels up greatly. They are all going to be playing for a Test spot. It is great for us. Jonny is a world-class player and has been for a number of years. It is a big boost to the side," O'Driscoll said.
Earlier on Monday, Wilkinson said: "To be asked to go on a Lions tour is the ultimate ambition. It makes me immensely proud to be going on this tour after a tough season, although also a little nervous in anticipation of what will be an incredible tour."
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