Wilkinson's injury problems worsen

VERSAILLES, France -- Jonny Wilkinson's participation in the rugby World Cup is hanging in the balance after it was revealed that England fly half sprained ankle ligaments in a training accident.

Wilkinson, who kicked the winning drop goal as England triumphed in the 2003 World Cup final, had already been ruled out of Saturday's Pool A opener against the United States in Lens.

Now the nature of his injury makes him doubtful for the crunch match against the Springboks in Paris on September 14.

"He will undergo intensive treatment over the next few days and a further update will be issued next on Tuesday September 11," said a team spokesman on Wednesday.

Bath's Olly Barkley has already been named as Wilkinson's replacement at fly-half for the match against the United States.

"It's not an ideal way to be starting a game. I am sad to see Jonny injured," said Barkley.

"Fingers crossed for Jonny that he is fit for next week, but I am looking to play as well as I possibly can on Saturday to make sure I create a few headaches if he is fit.

"Training with Jonny over the past six weeks or so has been great for me, and I think I have improved as a result. Just watching him is a huge boost, particularly in terms of his technique."

The setback is the latest of a long series for the injury-plagued Wilkinson, who has made just seven England starts since the World Cup final against Australia.

The Newcastle player has suffered injuries to his knee ligaments, arm, shoulder and kidneys. E-mail to a friend