Wilkinson scare as Blues make history
CARDIFF BLUES (28) vs TOULON (21)
ENGLAND fly-half Jonny Wilkinson is a major doubt for the summer tour of Australia and New Zealand after suffering a suspected broken rib during Toulon’s Amlin Challenge Cup defeat.
Wilkinson left the pitch after hurting himself taking a penalty early in the second half and will undergo a scan in the next 48 hours to shed light on a problem that had him and coach Philippe Saint-Andre puzzled and concerned.
“He took a bang. He was very sore. We don’t know if it is a big matter, if it is a broken rib,” said Saint-Andre. “If it is broken then yes [he will miss the tour] if not, no.”
Record Test points scorer Wilkinson (right), was more positive, saying: “I’m not sure if it’s a cracked rib. It feels like a bit of a back strain. At the moment it does feel a bit uncomfortable but I am not feeling dread.”
Wilkinson’s exit proved the turning point in Marseille, as Cardiff overcame a 13-6 half-time deficit to become the first Welsh side to win a European trophy. Wales and British Lions centre Jamie Roberts powered over to help level and further tries from wing Leigh Halfpenny and lock Bradley Davies secured victory, despite Thomas Sourice’s late reply.