A right handful: Wasps winger Christian Wade causes the Barbarians defence problems at Twickenham

ONE OF the brightest prospects in English rugby, Wade has won plaudits for his ability to terrorise defences. He’s one of the fastest wingers in the English Premiership and has a brilliant side-step – attributes he showed to great effect for Wasps against Leinster in the Amlin Challenge Cup quarter-final. There are a few question marks over his defence, but he’s a special talent with ball in hand.

WHY SELECTED

With Tommy Bowe recovering from hand surgery and George North struggling with a hamstring strain, Warren Gatland wanted to call in extra cover out wide ahead of the Tests. He has a different skill-set to the bigger, more physical wingers in the squad.

TEST PROSPECTS

It’s unlikely right now but if the injuries continue to pile up and Wade impresses when he plays in midweek, Gatland could opt for something a little different against Australia.

GREATEST DAY

Beating Argentina  32-3 on 6 June. The winger made a huge impact on his international debut, sparking many an attack as England achieved a comfortable four-try victory in Salta.

IF HE WERE A FOOD

Ice-cream – cool, slick and a good finish.

Winging in: Wade trains in Sydney

FAST FACTS

Club London Wasps

Age 22 (15 May 1991)

Born Slough

Dimensions 5ft 8in & 13st 7lb

Country England

Test caps One

Test points None

Every 2013 Lions player is profiled in the July edition of Rugby World, with Lions legend Sir Ian McGeechan giving his verdict on each member of the squad. It’s on sale now.