Jones hailed ahead of world-record cap
WALES captain Alun Wyn Jones will equal the world record for most international rugby union appearances in tomorrow’s Guinness Six Nations clash against Scotland.
The 34-year-old’s 148th Test, a tally that includes nine for the British and Irish Lions, matches the figure set by New Zealand’s World Cup-winning captain Richie McCaw between 2001 and 2015.
Wales head coach Wayne Pivac paid tribute to his skipper, saying: “Alun Wyn is one of the most iconic figures in the game, he is our leader and I am delighted for him as he continues to set the bar across the game.
“You just need to speak to anybody he plays against, and they will tell you what it’s like to play against him. They hold him in high regard.
“I’ve seen first-hand what Alun Wyn does, not only on the field, but in terms of training and our environment, in terms of his leadership off the field. It’s just huge. He is the ultimate professional.
“Every country will have someone who they will say is the ultimate professional, and in Wales he is that guy. He’s world-class, no doubt about it.
“I’m full of praise for him and I’ve only worked with him a couple of weeks.
“Equalling the record will be a proud moment for him, and all being well, he will break that record.”
Pivac has made four changes to the team beaten 33-30 by England last weekend, calling up uncapped Sale Sharks prop WillGriff John, fellow front-rower Wyn Jones, lock Cory Hill and scrum-half Rhys Webb.