England's Jonny Wilkinson was named at flyhalf on Wednesday in the British and Irish Lions side to take on Argentina in a pre-tour game in Cardiff next Monday.
The Newcastle player was a late addition to the original Lions squad for the tour of New Zealand after overcoming his latest injury.
Wilkinson was also named as vice-captain of the side with Michael Owen, who was skipper of the Wales Six Nations Grand Slam team, given the captaincy in the absence of Brian O'Driscoll.
The England No. 10 has not played at the highest level since dropping the goal which won England the 2003 World Cup in Sydney.
When he takes to the field in Cardiff it will represent a personal triumph for Wilkinson, who has been plagued by injuries since his World Cup exploits.
He was initially left out of the Lions squad due to question marks lingering over his fitness, but Wilkinson convinced Lions chief Sir Clive Woodward of his form and physical sharpness over the closing weeks of the Premiership season, resulting in his late call-up.
He will be partnered at half-back by Wales scrumhalf Gareth Cooper.
"It's important for him to get another full game in," Woodward told a news conference at the squad's training base just outside Cardiff.
"Jonny Wilkinson will be vice-captain as it's vital to have experienced leaders on the pitch," he said.
Wilkinson recently returned from a knee injury and turned in a fine all-round performance against Gloucester two weeks ago.
Woodward, England's World Cup winning coach, said he had no doubts about naming Wales No. 8 Owen as his captain for the Millennium Stadium match.
"I'm particularly pleased to be sitting here next to Michael. He had a fantastic Six Nations and truly reflects why Wales were successful. I think it will be a very special occasion for him to captain the Lions in Cardiff. It's a great honor for him and I've got no doubt he will acquit himself well," Woodward said.
And Woodward, a former England and Lions center, said the Pumas were just the opposition the Lions needed before facing the All Blacks.
"I'm delighted we're playing this fixture. I've got no doubt this is going to be a very stiff test -- we know their strengths. [Ireland coach] Eddie O'Sullivan's input here has been excellent, as Ireland have played Argentina more than any of the other home nations in the last few years," he said.
Ireland center Gordan D'Arcy was another player named in the side after missing most of the Six Nations season through a hamstring injury.
He was one of six Irish players named in the side with five from England, three from Wales and back-rower Simon Taylor the only Scot.
The Lions begin their 11-match tour against Bay of Plenty in Rotorua on June 4 while the first of three Tests against the All Blacks is at Christchurch on June 25.



