Wilkinson named in England squad

Jonny Wilkinson has been named in England’s 26-man squad for the Churchill Cup competition in Canada in June - adding to hopes he could join the Lions squad in the summer.

Jonny Wilkinson has been named in England’s 26-man squad for the Churchill Cup competition in Canada in June.

Fly-half Wilkinson, who has not played international rugby since the 2003 World Cup due to a catalogue of injuries, could still tour New Zealand with the Lions this summer.

Wilkinson was not named in Clive Woodward’s original 44-man squad, but he has the option of adding him if he proves his match fitness over the next few weeks.

Fellow Lions hopefuls Phil Vickery and Mike Tindall will also travel to Canada in a squad captained by Worcester flanker Pat Sanderson.

England face Canada in Edmonton on June 19, when they should progress to the final seven days later against Argentina or the USA – although caps are not being awarded.