No isolation on this tour says Wilkinson

Even though he has been gameless so far, Jonny Wilkinson says the 2005 Lions touring party has a different feeling to the 2001 tour of Australia under Graham Henry.

Wilkinson, yet to play in New Zealand has t talked about the team's feeling of togetherness. Wilkinson's lack of game time in 2005 contrasts with his time as a test certainty in 2001 - when others blocked from the test team helped turn it into an unhappy tour.

Wilkinson's gamelessness has been one of the major talking points of the tour so far and, writing in his column for the Times, Wilkinson doesn't specifically mention Henry but says: "What is important, especially with this many players waiting so long to get a start, is the way management have kept everyone's interests. There's an understanding this time that everyone's got an equal opportunity to be their best, to try to prove themselves, to do themselves proud. That keeps all of us fresh and enthusiastic."

Wilkinson said every player was being given an opportunity in regards to the Lions test team "and that is certainly in contrast to a feeling that was prevalent in 2001, when some people weren't really challenging for a spot".

He was one of those in a privileged position last time but: "I know it was difficult for some of my fellow squad members. This time everyone has something to play for."

Most observers regard Wilkinson as certain to play in what is likely to be a near-test side against Wellington and then return to the sidelines until the first test. However, last night's match against the Maori may change that if the Lions feel they need his generalship.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY