Wigglesworth doesn’t need luck

Richard Wigglesworth’s luck was out when Saracens tossed a coin to decide who would start at scrum-half in the Aviva Premiership final against Leicester.

He then enjoyed a stroke of good fortune when it came to the Olympic ticket ballot, landing a pair of prized seats to the 100 metres final at London 2012.

But, on Saturday, Wigglesworth has the opportunity to determine his own destiny when he starts against Ireland in England’s final run-out before the World Cup and he is determined to take it.

Wigglesworth has forced his way back into the England fold after a three-year absence on the back of an impressive season with the Premiership champions. With Danny Care out with a toe injury and Ben Youngs still recovering from knee surgery, Wigglesworth has the chance to cement his place in the team for England’s opening World Cup match against Argentina on 10 September.

“I came into the squad aiming to go to the World Cup and that has happened. When we got the phone calls I was confident I had done everything I could do,” said Wigglesworth.

“Now I am aiming to play – and I have to keep working hard to make that one happen.

“I was gutted for Danny, he is a good mate of mine and I didn’t want to see that happen. I have to get on with what I am doing.

“I think it might be a little different than using a coin toss with England – and it didn’t work that well for me last time anyway!”

Meanwhile, England flanker James Haskell has been passed fit for selection against Ireland.

Haskell was sent for a precautionary scan on his foot, which revealed only mild inflammation to a tendon. The 26-year-old trained fully with the squad on Tuesday. England manager Martin Johnson will name his side to face Ireland today.