Toulon refuse to let Wilkinson join up with England

Jonny Wilkinson will not be released by Toulon to join up with England’s elite squad when they meet on 8 August.

Wilkinson, who is recovering from a shoulder injury that led him to miss a pre-season fixture against Stade Francais last week, will make himself available for the Top 14 club providing he is fit.

A Toulon statement said Wilkinson “will respect his contract and be available for the first game of the Top 14 against Bayonne on 13 August”.

The Rugby Football Union has an agreement with English clubs over player release, but has had to negotiate individually with French clubs.

Back row James Haskell was involved in another row between the two bodies when he was asked to be made available for Stade Francais during England’s Six Nations campaign.