British and Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland on Monday insisted he won't ask Jonny Wilkinson to join the forthcoming tour to Australia unless his squad is hit by injuries.

Wilkinson was crowned European player of the year on Sunday to cap a memorable weekend for the English star, who had kicked Toulon to victory over Clermont Auvergne in the final of the European Cup just 24 hours earlier.

The 33-year-old was asked to tour by Gatland before the 37-man squad was announced on April 30, but Wilkinson rejected the opportunity due to his commitments at Toulon and deteriorating fitness.

AFP - Global Times