Wilson may opt out of Lomu game

Jeff Wilson in action for the Black Caps against the World XI in Hamilton yesterday. Picture / Fotopress

Jeff Wilson has put his return to rugby in June on hold after proving to himself he has the goods for international cricket.

The All Blacks great said he was satisfied with his cricketing comeback in the World XI series in the past week, having taken three for six off four overs on a seaming pitch in yesterday's final match.

Wilson has verbally agreed to play alongside former team-mate Jonah Lomu in former England captain Martin Johnson's testimonial match at Twickenham on June 4.

But he said things could change if he puts himself in the frame for a New Zealand Cricket contract when they are handed out in May.

"All I've done is played these three games and shown I can compete. Certainly there's some water to go under the bridge before we decide on that game [rugby]," Wilson said.

"I'd like to be involved in that match, I'd love the opportunity to play with Jonah again. It would be exciting, and to be at Twickenham would be great.

"At the moment I'm committed to it, but there's some decisions to be made and I'm not sure what's happening with contracts.

"My job is to go out and play cricket and I just want to get through the next game."

Wilson bowled at a sharp pace, impressed his team-mates and opposing captain Shane Warne, and showed he could be up to a recall for the Australia series next month if Jacob Oram is ruled out with injury.

Chris Cairns said Wilson had probably exceeded his expectations of where he was at.

"I've taken a lot of heart from his performance and that's a huge positive to come out of the series," Cairns said.

- NZPA