Jonathan Sexton could be forgiven for having an eye on the bigger prize but insists he is dedicated to delivering the perfect parting gift to Leinster.
Sexton’s feet will barely touch the floor during a whirlwind summer that is set to prove a defining period for the outhalf. Having spent two months kicking his heels as he recovers from a hamstring injury, Sexton is now steeling himself for back-to-back finals, the British & Irish Lions tour and then a move away from his hometown to France.
However the 27-year-old insists his priority is claiming a unique double for his home province by lifting the Amlin Challenge Cup and Pro12 titles.
He admitted: “There’s a lot going on in my head right now. We’ve got a big end to the season with Leinster and then we’re straight into the Lions which is the pinnacle of your career. Then there’s the move to France which was a big decision for me after nine years with my home province, but the most important thing is finishing on a high with Leinster.
"We're a very close squad and there's a few guys all leaving at the same time with Joe Schmidt so everyone wants to give the perfect send-off."
Blessing in disguise
The cloud of missing the latter half of the Six Nations could yet have a silver lining and Sexton's injury is looking to prove a blessing in disguise with the outhalf enjoying the 'novelty' of a mid-season rest ahead of such a busy and important three months.
“Hopefully I’ve used up all my injuries for the year. It feels strange to feel so fresh at this stage of the season, usually I’m knackered. I’ve only played four games after two months off so I feel great.
“I’m starting to get my rhythm and match fitness so hopefully I will peak at the right times in the finals. Those are two competitive and high pressure games which is exactly what I want and need.”
Warren Gatland admitted those players involved in domestic finals could be at a disadvantage with the Lions given they will miss almost two weeks of preparation ahead of the tour.
Sexton said: “Owen (Farrell) may well get a head start in terms of preparation and learning the structures and will probably get the first game.”
Contrary to public belief, Sexton admits he was disappointed Jonny Wilkinson was not selected.
“A lot of people said it’s good that Jonny isn’t going because I’ll have a better chance of playing but I look at it the other way around. I looked up to him when I was 16 years old and he was winning the World Cup and it would have been great to learn from him.”
Sexton will, however, get the opportunity to become acquainted with fellow Racing-Metro bound Lions Jamie Roberts and Dan Lydiate as well as a Lions outhalf great in kicking coach Neil Jenkins.
He said: “It will be great to work with him and pick his brains. My first Lions memory is watching videos of the 1997 tour in which he was a big part. Hopefully I can achieve my own special moments.”
