Captain Jones fit to resume service against Azzurri

ALUN Wyn Jones will be available for Wales’ final Six Nations match against Italy next Saturday after making his latest stunning recovery from injury.

The British and Irish Lions captain, 36, had shoulder surgery after injuring himself against New Zealand in October.

Jones also made a remarkably swift recovery from a shoulder injury to be fit in time for the Lions’ Test series against South Africa last summer.

“He’s worked very hard, as Al does,” said Wales head coach Wayne Pivac. “He’s been training with the team, helping prepare the side for France. He’ll be available for selection.”

If Ospreys star Jones plays against Italy, he will become the first player to win 150 caps for Wales.

He already holds the record for most overall appearances in international rugby, having made 161 for Wales and the Lions.

In Jones’ absence, flyhalf Dan Biggar has captained the side and is set to make his 100th appearance on Saturday.

Biggar, who said he felt “frustrated, annoyed and disappointed” following defeat by France feels Wales are better than their tournament results have shown.

“You know when you have played well and when you have played poorly,” Biggar said.

“We played very poorly in the opening weekend [defeat by Ireland] in Dublin and have got better as the tournament has gone on. We were one score away from beating France and England.

“I am annoyed we have not picked up at least one win in the last two games, but we are in a much better place than we were against Ireland. Apart from that game in Dublin, we have been right in the mix in games and played some good stuff.”