5 Potential British & Irish Lions Wildcards

Warren Gatland has some difficult decisions to make.

British & Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland will name his squad for New Zealand on April 19. It’s pretty safe to say that at least 20 players are already nailed on for this squad but as for the rest of the make up- he has some really difficult decisions to make.

Over the last seven weeks or so we’ve been monitoring the Six Nations closely, trying to decide who’s done enough to grab a spot on the plane based almost solely on this. The question is though, will Gatland include a few wildcards who aren’t exactly involved in international rugby at the moment?

Here’s five players that could realistically be considered.

Chris Ashton

The Toulon bound Saracens winger has been in excellent form for his club since returning from his ban. A deadly finisher, but his attitude and discipline could be his downfall.

Richard Hibbard

A 2013 tourist who’s been pretty much left out in the wilderness by Wales. Playing some great rugby for Gloucester and knows what it takes to win a Lions series.

Danny Cipriani

The Wasps playmaker offers a different style of play to the other playmaker’s in contention. His battle with Sexton this weekend will be pivotal.

Denny Solomona

The Sale winger has been in incredible form since his switch from league. A really powerful winger that knows where the try-line is. A real possibility.

Nick Abendanon

The 2015 European Player of the Year has once again been in excellent form for Clermont again this season. Could potentially end up being a late call-up in anything due to the scheduling conflict with a potential Top 14 final involvement likely.