The Welshman is concerned the Newcastle Falcons fly-half, who has not played international rugby since kicking England to glory in the 2003 World Cup final, is not ready for the rigours of a Lions tour.

Dawes told the Daily Mirror: "Wilkinson would undoubtedly be a target for the All Blacks and being the committed player he is, he would not back out.

"But it's hard to protect someone in that position and I fear he just would not come through it. The tour could cause him serious damage."