Alun’s up for Welsh renewal
ALUN WYN JONES is vowing to defy Father Time — and his own rustiness — to lead a Wales revival against Ireland today.
The 35-year-old Wales captain (above) has not played since damaging his knee against Italy two months ago, but is happy to be thrown straight back into this afternoon’s high-stakes Six Nations game (3pm).
Wales are under pressure after a poor 2020 and a home slip-up to start the championship would only add to the negativity around coach Wayne Pivac.
So, in what will be his 153rd Test, Jones is determined to hit the ground running at the Principality Stadium.
“You’ve seen me do it before,” insisted Jones.
“I’ve been a bit frustrated really because it was a similar period for me postWorld Cup.
“This injury was just someone falling on me. It’s been a bit more frustrating but I’m relishing the chance to get back into it properly.
“I had a good recovery and it’s been pretty seamless in terms of its progression and the staged return.
“I was fully prepared to play in the Connacht game for Ospreys a couple of weeks ago and I’ve been fortunate enough to get the nod for the game against Ireland for Wales.
“We’ve been trying to deliver for quite a while. We realise how close we’ve been in a number of the games, particularly in 2020.
“But Wayne has been candid that this is the Six
Nations and it’s tournament rugby. We were successful the last time we played the Irish at the stadium and it’s the Six Nations now — so hopefully they can see the best of us.”
Last time Wales played Ireland, three months ago in the Autumn Nations Cup in Dublin, Pivac’s side were well beaten 32-9.
If they could point to a degree of experimentation then, they can’t now. Today will see — in the coach’s view — the best side Wales have at their disposal.
It is also the most-capped side in their history with
Dan Lydiate recalled and Ken Owens back after a shoulder injury to win his 80th cap.
“Someone of Ken’s stature and experience in the game coming back in makes things seamless,” said Jones.
The Principality Stadium factor plays in their favour; it is a ground where Ireland have not won since 2013. With no fans the acoustics will be very different but it is still unmistakably Wales.
“There is nothing like it,” said Jones. “We’ve had a training session there. It’s hard to describe, but being back was a welcome place to be. We’re looking forward to playing there even if you can’t replicate the fans.”
After missing out on the Six Nations title on the final day last season the Irish start as narrow favourites.
“There’s a hunger there, there’s a togetherness there, there’s a unity within the squad,” said Ireland coach Andy Farrell.
“Hopefully that will stand us in good stead.”