Thomas and Robinson to join Lions next week

The last two members of the touring Lions rugby team to arrive in New Zealand will join the side next week, coach Sir Clive Woodward said today.

Gareth Thomas will join the tour from Tuesday and Jason Robinson will follow a couple of days later.

Toulouse's loss to Stade Francaise means that the Welshman's club commitments in France for the season are over and he can switch his attention to the Lions.

England's World Cup fullback Robinson delayed his departure from home to be with his pregnant wife.

"Gareth Thomas is a world class player who has had a fantastic season," Woodward said.

"I have no doubt he has an enormous contribution to make to the tour. With him and Jason coming out, it is a double boost for us."

Woodward said Jonny Wilkinson and Shane Byrne were remaining in Auckland today rather than travelling to the Bay of Plenty match or doing any community activity.

He said both players sustained contact injuries at training yesterday but neither was serious.

- NZPA