David Wilson has sacrificed the chance of playing against the British Lions in order to pursue his rugby dream with Harlequins.

The most capped back-row forward in Australian rugby history has played a test against every nation but has never taken on the might of the British Lions.

"It was difficult decision for me to come to England because it meant turning down the opportunity of playing against the British Lions," said Wilson.

"I have played against every other test side but never had the chance to play against the Lions.

"However, I enjoyed my time with the Wallabies and achieved considerable success over the past nine years.

"It is nice to bow out after possibly the most successful year in Australian rugby history."

The tenacious open-side flanker highlighted the reasons for his decision to switch from Queensland and join the 'under-achievers' of the Zurich Premiership.

"I have been looking forward to joining up with my new team-mates for the last three months," added Wilson.

"I have always relished the opportunity of playing Northern Hemisphere rugby and am excited about the prospect of living in London.

"I had come to a stage in my career where I required a change and yearned for a new challenge.

"I spoke to a number of clubs in England but was impressed with what Mark Evans and Zinzan Brooke were trying to achieve at Harlequins.

"They are the best known English club in the Southern Hemisphere and are steeped in tradition.

"Despite a disappointing season for the club last year, I was excited at the prospect of joining a club the size of Harlequins.

"It will be an honour to lead the team but people must realise things will not change round overnight.

"The transition will not take place in a week, it will take time for the team to gel and for me to get know the personal style and structure of the club."

Harlequins coach Zinzan Brooke, mirrored the opinion of his new acquisition and confirmed Wilson would not take over the captaincy immediately.

"I think it would not be fair to David to make him captain for the first few weeks until he knows the players and the moves at the club," said Brooke.

"It will add unnecessary pressure to him while he attempts to ease his way in to the team."

In the short term Keith Wood will continue to skipper the side, despite Wilson's appearance for Quins in their next match, against Bristol on Saturday.

Wilson explained this would not be a problem and illustrated his captaincy skills would be unorthodox in comparison to most.

"My leadership skills are laid back, which will surprise some," said Wilson. "I will be looking to my senior players for support and assistance.

"I also believe every player is allowed their say, whether they are old or young.

"The experience I have gathered at Queensland and for the Wallabies will be valuable and will allow me to offer coaching points out on the training paddock."