Lions blow for Wilkinson, Armitage

Lions coach Warren Gatland has given a clear indication that players involved in the Top 14 play-offs are unlikely to make his squad.

British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland has given a clear indication that players involved in the Top 14 run-in are unlikely to make his squad.

Gatland was speaking from Hong Kong where he was in attendance at the Sevens, with the news a blow to Jonny Wilkinson and Steffon Armitage.

The reason for the decision is that he wants all touring players to be on the same plane. But for Toulon stars like the duo and Andrew Sheridan, that could be a problem as the Barbarians fixture – to be played in Hong Kong – clashes with a Top 14 final they hope to be involved in on June 1.

“We would really want all the party to travel out together as one,” he told The Telegraph.

“We are not really thinking outside the box for anyone at the moment.”