Jones says Wales fans’ excitement ‘not lost’ in Six Nations title fight

Alun Wyn Jones says excitement and support from the Welsh public is “definitely not lost on us” as Wales try to win a Guinness Six Nations Championship like no other.

Wales conclude their campaign against France in Paris today, when victory would see them crowned Six Nations Grand Slam champions for the second time in three seasons.

This time, though, the feat would be achieved in its entirety without fans in the grounds due to coronavirus-related restrictions.

But, despite the tournament being played out behind closed doors, Jones knows that supporters’ sense of expectation and encouragement has not waned.

“The privilege and the sense of pride we have in representing Wales has been accentuated by the off-field situation,” Wales captain Jones said.

“I, as an individual, and the team have not needed reminding of what everyone is facing and what we are representing.

“The people you do come in contact with are probably more animated and excited than they would be anyway.

“It is definitely felt.

“At the Vale (Wales’ hotel and training base) there are a few guys relaying the driveway, and you could see the excitement in their faces as they waved us off.

“It is definitely not lost on us.

“There is an overriding sense of anticipation and excitement for what is a relatively large fixture tomorrow.”

Wales have won on three of their last four Six Nations visits to France, while only wing Louis Rees-zammit in their starting line-up this weekend has never been part of a Grand Slamwinning team.

But they have not faced the challenge before of completing a Six Nations clean sweep away from home – all four previous Grand Slams were sealed in Cardiff – and they will encounter a France team still holding title aspirations.

Alun Wyn Jones.