British and Irish Lions

Sir Clive Woodward has given the biggest indication yet that Lawrence Dallaglio will be part of his British & Irish Lions touring party this summer despite the veteran number 8's retirement from international rugby.

The former England captain is among Woodward's selection choices for the northern hemisphere team against the southern hemisphere in the IRB Rugby Aid match at Twickenham next month.

The fixture has been organised for March 5 to help raise funds for those affected by the Asian tsunami and raised interest from a Lions perspective ever since Woodward was named coach of the northern hemisphere side.

Woodward had said previously that only current internationals would be considered for the tour to New Zealand, but he has hinted a select few of retired or non-capped players would be considered for his squad.

Dallaglio said: 'It's great to be able to play a game of rugby aimed at helping victims of the tsunami while giving everyone the opportunity of watching some of the worlds best players.'

Three former British & Irish Lions will line-up against an England XV at Twickenham Stadium on Sunday as the Barbarians warm-up for their showdown with the 2013 tourists in Hong Kong next week.

Radike Samo, one of only two players still playing top level rugby in Australia who placed against the 2001 British & Irish Lions, will return to top flight action with Queensland Reds against the Stormers in Cape Town on Sunday.