LUGER LINES UP FOR BARBARIANS

Dan Luger will line up for the Barbarians against Wales on Sunday week - with the blessing of Lions manager Donal Lenihan.

Lenihan has sanctioned injury-hit Luger`s Millennium Stadium appearance, even though it comes just 12 days before the Lions depart for Australia.

Luger, one of 18 Englishmen in the Lions squad, has played just 80 minutes` competitive rugby since England beat Wales in Cardiff on February 3.

The Saracens wing suffered an injury to his upper back during that game, and spent 12 weeks sidelined before returning in his club`s 45-17 Premiership play-off defeat at Northampton 10 days ago.

"It is imperative that Dan gets back to his best to compete for a Lions Test place, and this seems the most sensible solution," said Lenihan.

"I contacted Barbarians president Micky Steele-Bodger, and he was only too glad to assist us.

"After coming back from injury last year, Dan played for the Barbarians and made a huge impact during their tour, and subsequently played an influential part in England`s success in South Africa."

Luger, whose top-flight career has been hindered by injury problems, should be a Lions Test team certainty provided he stays fit.

"I am fully recovered from injury and physically back to my best, but I need as much match practice as possible before embarking on the Lions tour," he admitted.

"I contacted Donal Lenihan and enquired whether I could get some additional games under my belt, and I am thrilled that both Lions and Barbarians have given me this fantastic opportunity."

Off the field, Luger has still to thrash out a new deal with Saracens, and his former club Harlequins have now been linked with a possible swoop.