Jenkins, who scored more than 1,000 points for Wales and the Lions during his international career, is expected to link up with the tourists in Cape Town later this week.

Jenkins, whose goalkicking underpinned the Lions’ Test series triumph against the Springboks in 1997, has just completed Wales’ short tour of North America.

Lions manager Gerald Davies said: “We found out that Neil was going to be in South Africa during the latter stages of the tour.

“Therefore, the coaching staff thought it would be a good idea to ask him to become involved with the squad as kicking coach when he was here.”

Lions head coach Ian McGeechan added: “We did not appoint a kicking coach initially as Rob Howley and Shaun Edwards have experience in this area and have adequately taken responsibility for looking after the kickers.

“However, when someone of Neil’s ability is available, and on hand, it would be foolish not to take advantage of it.

“If anyone knows about what is required in terms of general kicking and goal kicking in South Africa, it is Neil.”

Stephen Jones, Ronan O’Gara and James Hook have been in outstanding form during the opening three tour games, missing just one kick between them.

Jenkins said: “I have clear ideas of what I would like to contribute and I know so many of the players, coaches and back-up team that I will be able to get out onto the training pitch and get started as soon as I arrive.”