BATH have backed the England versus New Zealand Barbarians clash on December 20 even though it is likely to deprive their own fans of probably their only chance to see World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson in action at the Rec this season.
Wilkinson's Newcastle Falcons have a Zurich Premiership appointment in Bath on the same day that a sell-out Twickenham will acclaim Clive Woodward's champions.
And England's drop-goal hero, along with Bath stars Mike Catt, Mike Tindall and Iain Balshaw, is certain to be among Woodward's squad for the special clash, ruling him out of the meeting at the Rec.
The Twickenham match which has been organised by the RFU and Premier Rugby, has been criticised in some quarters.
Bath refused to comment directly on the matter, but Premier Rugby chief executive Howard Thomas insisted the special game had the the Premiership clubs' backing.
"Premiership fans are looking forward to welcoming the England players back to their clubs and they will return to club duty this week,'' said Thomas.
"However, the clubs fully support this special, one-off celebration match at Twickenham. Everyone in club rugby is extremely proud of what Clive Woodward and the England team have achieved.''
Bath's clash with the Falcons is already a sell-out.
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