Skipper set to equal world record for internationals

Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones will equal the world record for most international rugby union appearances in Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations clash against Scotland.

Jones’ 148th Test, a tally that includes nine for the British and Irish Lions, matches the figure set by New Zealand’s World Cupwinning captain Richie McCaw between 2001 and 2015.

Wales head coach Wayne Pivac paid tribute to his skipper, stating: “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.”

Pivac has made four changes to the team beaten 33-30 by England, with uncapped Sale Sharks prop WillGriff John, fellow front-rower Wyn Jones, lock Cory Hill and scrum-half Rhys Webb called up.

Hill, who makes his first Wales start since February last year, replaces Jake Ball after he suffered a shoulder injury in the England game. John, meanwhile, takes over from Dillon Lewis, Jones is in for Rob Evans and Webb is preferred to Tomos Williams.

Webb was unavailable for Wales during his time with Toulon because he did not meet the Welsh Rugby Union’s minimum 60-cap eligibility rule for players plying their trade outside Wales.

He has not started a Test since November 2017, but after signing to rejoin the Ospreys next term he then gained a dispensation period to be available for the Six Nations and appeared off the bench against Italy and England.

Wales will aim to avoid a fourth successive Six Nations defeat, which they have not experienced since 2007.