Gatland backing for Wales switch

Alun-wyn Jones is favourite to lead the British and Irish Lions in new Zealand this summer after his appointment as Wales captain received the seal of approval from Warren Gatland.

Interim coach rob howley spoke to Gatland before making the change — with the Kiwi agreeing Jones, 31, has all the credentials

IT’S CAPTAIN JONES

We revealed Jones would be Wales skipper last Wednesday to take over from sam Warburton as skipper.

Jones has overtaken rory Best as the front-runner to captain the tour, while Warburton was told he faces pressure for selection in the six nations.

‘ no one is guaranteed their position but alun-Wyn is the first name on the team sheet,’ said howley.

‘I phoned Warren when I spoke to sam and alun-Wyn. he backed the decision. We want sam to concentrate on getting his mojo back. sam agreed.’

Jones last night received a glowingg reference from defenced coach shaun edwards, who said: ‘he’s one of the few players in our team who is guaranteed their place at the moment.

‘he’s a stand- out performer and that obviously had an impact on the captaincy decision.’

howley named seven uncapped players in his 36-man squad yesterday, including Leicester fly-half Owen Williams, Wasps flanker thomas young and newport Gwent Dragons wing ashton hewitt.