McIlwham wasn't offered a contract by Glasgow at the end of last season and followed another Warrior, James McLaren, to play his rugby with Bordeaux-Begles in France. Glasgow's failure to offer him a contract was all the more confusing as he had just been selected for Scotland's summer tour to North America.
McIlwham has been catching the eye in France with some impressive performances and picked up a man of the match award last week against Stade Français. McIlwham's versatility allows him to play on both sides of the scrum - something the Scottish selectors have been looking for.
Warriors coach Kiwi Searancke intends to bring in a hard scrummaging prop for next season and McIlwham, with his experience and versatility, could fit the bill.