Alun Wyn calls on squad to be like Gethin

CAPTAIN Alun Wyn Jones challenged his charges to emulate Gethin Jenkins’ “legendary” career on the eve of Wales’ autumn international clash with Scotland.

It will be the first time the Six Nations rivals have met in the autumn, with the experienced second row admitting it was a “different complexion” to their normal contests.

He also paid tribute to Jenkins, who announced his retirement this week, as well as setting out Wales’ goals for an autumn series in which they face Scotland, Australia, Tonga and South Africa.

“From the outset and when the (Scotland) fixture was named it was a different complexion,” he said.

“It’s different to the Five Nations or Six Nations – depending on how old you are – but it’s an opportunity to play against a close rival and I’m sure it will be a mouth-watering encounter for the series as a whole.”

Jones is just 12 caps away from Jenkins’ Welsh record of 129, but said that figure isn’t in his mind – despite the fact he could eclipse it during next year’s World Cup.

The 33-year-old is concentrating on building his fitness after enjoying a full pre-season programme with the Ospreys.

“People use the words legendary status, and he’s got that,” said Jones on long-time Wales teammate Jenkins.

“He had that a long time before he retired.

“The one striking thing was the comment he made in the week about having one more game, I think he wants to leave the pitch retiring, rather than not having that chance, and that sums Gethin up.”

And breaking that record?

“It’s not about a numbers game, it’s about what you do in the jersey. If half the players in the squad we’ve got could emulate what Gethin has done, we’d be in a good place.

“He has been a great team-mate on and off the field, and I wish him well for the future.

“I’m feeling very good,” added Jones on his own wellbeing.

“I’ve been managed and had a plan and that’s been stuck to despite the injuries we’ve had at the Ospreys. I’ve been very grateful to the Ospreys and the WRU.

“With regards to how well and fresh I’m looking, I’ll leave that up to other people’s opinions after the game.

“I feel in a good place both in and away from the game and that’s important.”

■ Jenkins on bench: Page 56