Honour for Alun Wyn as coronavirus heroes also recognised in Queen’s Birthday Honours
WALES and Ospreys captain Alun Wyn Jones has been appointed an OBE.
Jones is expected to surpass the record of New Zealand skipper Richie Mccaw for most test appearances later this month, with a friendly against France ahead of the delayed Six Nations clash with Scotland.
The 35-year-old Ospreys lock is preparing for a 139th Wales appearance, which had originally looked set for March, and he has also won nine caps for the Lions.
“It is a huge honour to receive such an accolade,” Jones said in a statement. “I was initially reluctant to receive such an award in these trying times when there are so many people doing so much good for the community and are more worthy, but I see this as an acknowledgement to all the people who have helped me throughout my career.
“It is recognition for everyone that has supported me from grassroots and intermediate, to professional and international rugby.
“It is for my family, those who aren’t here anymore and those who are still here and fully behind me and for all their support in what I have done and what I want to continue to do.”
Former Wales coach Warren Gatland has been awarded a CBE for services to the sport.
New Zealander Gatland, 57, stepped down after 12 years in charge of Wales following the 2019 World Cup in Japan, where his side lost against New Zealand in the bronzemedal match.
Gatland, already appointed an OBE in 2014, is set to take charge of next summer’s British and Irish Lions planned tour to South Africa.
He said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive a CBE. This award is recognition of everyone involved in Welsh rugby and all that we achieved together during my time as head coach.
“I feel very fortunate to be able to do something I love every day, and I would like to thank everyone who has supported me during my career.”
Former Lions captain Gareth Thomas, meanwhile, has been awarded a CBE for services to sport and health.
The 46-year-old Welshman, who also played rugby league, came out as gay in 2009 and last year revealed he was HIV positive with undetectable status.
Thomas continues to raise awareness of the issue and during the summer of 2020 he launched the Tackle HIV campaign to improve public understanding of HIV and break the stigma around it.
During his playing career, Thomas had spells at Bridgend, Cardiff RFC, Celtic Warriors, Toulouse and Cardiff Blues.
He made 100 appearances for Wales, captaining the side to a first Grand Slam in 27 years in 2005.