Alun Wyn Jones is not expected to return to his role as Wales captain this summer.
Jones is set to be named in Wayne Pivac’s squad for the upcoming South Africa tour on Wednesday, but is likely to only be involved as a senior player rather than captain, team-mate Dan Biggar to continue as skipper. It will be the first time since taking over the captaincy from Sam Warburton that Jones has not been named skipper for a campaign when fit and available.
Jones has played just four games since returning from a shoulder injury suffered in the clash with New Zealand in October last year, with his 150th Test coming in the 22-21 loss of the Six Nations against Italy.
It had previously been suggested that Jones could be rested for the three-Test trip, but the importance of this series has increased following a hugely disappointing Six Nations campaign, with Wales also suffering defeats against England. Ireland, England and France. like the Azzurri on the last day. Jones’ lack of action for much of this season also means his need for games is greater than expected.
READ MORE:‘Horrible’ Rugby World Cup draw slammed as top seeds Wales and half of world’s top four teams can’t make it to semi-finals
Biggar, in Jones’ absence, took over as captain for the tournament, earning his 100th cap in the process, and Pivac is ready to keep faith in the fly-half ahead of the upcoming showdown with the Springboks. He is believed to be a popular choice among players and impressed in the role earlier this year.
Wales are poised to carefully manage Jones, who also saw his second-tier spot filled by Adam Beard in recent Championships. It remains to be seen what kind of role the Ospreys star will play this summer, with Jones eyeing a potential fifth World Cup next year when he turns 38.
Wales name the squad on Wednesday, with George North set to return and Leicester Tigers’ Tommy Refell tipped to get his first call-up. You can follow the announcement live on WalesOnline on Wednesday at 12.30pm.
