Alun Wyn signs new one-year contract

WALES captain Alun Wyn Jones has extended his contract with the Ospreys and the Welsh Rugby Union for another year.

And that hints strongly at the prospect of 35-year-old Jones leading Wales at the 2023 World Cup.

“Earlier this year I extended my contract with the Welsh Rugby Union and the Ospreys. I’m really pleased to have done so and to continue my career with my region,” he announced in an Instagram post.

“In these very different times off the field, and with rugby the focus on the field, I didn’t feel the time was right to announce when I put pen to paper, but I am very pleased to extend my current contract for another year.

“I’m grateful that I get to continue to do what I love and to continue playing for the Ospreys.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported me during my career to date and particularly through these difficult times.”

A new deal for Jones had been expected, with both the Wales captain and Ospreys coach Toby Booth saying that his future would be sorted after this year’s Six Nations.

Jones is expected to go on his fourth Lions tour later this year, with the second-row one of the favourites to captain the touring side. Commenting on the announcement, Wales head coach, Wayne Pivac said; “I’m delighted that Alun’s contract extension has been announced in what is huge news for the game in Wales.

“Alun will go down as one of the greatest players of all time, but he is still at the top of the game, performing and winning and he deserves the contract extension, he is an important part of our future.

“It is not just what he does on the field, it is what he does every minute of every training session. He leads both on and off the field in everything that he does.

“He has huge pride in the jersey and playing for his country and that is evident in his preparation, his effort and commitment.

Ospreys coach Booth was also full of praise for Jones, saying: “Alun Wyn Jones’ commitment to delivering high performances, week-in and week-out, was evident to everybody during the recent Six Nations campaign when he was undoubtedly one of the players of the tournament.”