Wilkinson to play Challenge Cup semi-final

Jonny Wilkinson has been named in the Newcastle side for Friday night’s European Challenge Cup semi-final against Worcester at Sixways.

Wilkinson, who missed Falcons’ 53-10 Guinness Premiership loss to Sale Sharks last Sunday because of concussion, has been given the all-clear.

He is still, though, due to undergo shoulder surgery, which it has already been confirmed will sideline him for England’s two-Test tour of New Zealand in June.

Newcastle have three Premiership games left following the Worcester cup clash, facing Leicester, Wasps and then Worcester again during a seven-day spell next month.

Wilkinson’s England colleagues – centres Jamie Noon and Toby Flood – both return following ankle injuries, while there are recalls for the likes of full-back Mathew Tait, prop Carl Hayman and number eight Phil Dowson.

Bath or Sale await Friday night’s victors in the final, with the eventual tournament winners securing Heineken Cup qualification for next season.