The Scotsman

Wales captain Jones will stay with Ospreys to 2021

- By GARETH BLACK

Alun Wyn Jones has agreed a contract extension with the Welsh Rugby Union and the Ospreys to play in Wales for the next two years.

The Wales captain is the world’s most capped second row with 134 internatio­nal appearance­s – 125 for Wales and nine for the British & Irish Lions.

The 33-year-old, pictured, a three-time Lions tourist, led his country to Six Nations Grand Slam glory this year as Wales extended their unbeaten run to 14 games – the best in their history.

Jones posted on social media: “I’m happy to announce that I have signed a contract extension to June 2021 with the Welsh Rugby Union and the Ospreys and will be playing at the Liberty Stadium for the foreseeabl­e future.

“After serious considerat­ion and taking stock of all options, it is the right decision for my career at this pointintim­e, alongwithm­y personal ambitions on and off the field, my welfare and needs of my family.

“I’m really pleased to have been able to announce it directly to all those who have supported me throughout my career, especially all the Ospreys supporters.”

Jones, who is preparing to head to Switzerlan­d with the Wales squad this week for their first overseas Rugby World Cup training camp, first signed a national dual contract in March 2015.

He has made 238 appearance­s for the Swansea-based Ospreys, his home region.

WRU group chief executive Martyn Phillips, said: “This announceme­nt is a huge boost for Welsh rugby. “Alun Wyn is hugely respected across the game and I’m delighted he has committed his future here in Wales and that he will be continuing to play for his hometown region.

“I’m sure the news will delight both Wales and Ospreys supporters alike as he continues to inspire the next generation.”

Ospreys head coach Allen Clarke added: “Alun Wyn has spent his entire career with the Ospreys and I expect him to continue his legacy as a player and well beyond his playing days.

“He’s a tremendous individual and a winner with a deep hunger for the Ospreys to be successful on and off the field.”

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