The British and Irish Lions have confirmed that Alun Wyn Jones could make a shock return for the tour of South Africa.
Warren Gatland has confirmed that Alun Wyn Jones could make a shock return for the British and Irish Lions in South Africa.
For the British and Irish Lions, Alun Wyn Jones may make a surprise comeback (Picture: Getty)
After a “amazing rehabilitation” from a shoulder injury, Warren Gatland has announced Alun Wyn Jones may return to the British and Irish Lions for their tour of South Africa.
Jones, 35, was chosen captain when Gatland announced his 37-man team to face the Springboks in May, but the lock injured his shoulder in the side’s warm-up match against Japan, thus ending his trip before it started.
Following the Lions’ 28-10 victory at Murrayfield, the experienced second row was ruled out of the next three-match Test series, but has since returned to training with Wales at their Vale Resort base.
And, during a news conference on Monday, Lions head coach Gatland confirmed that if Jones’ health is cleared, he may be on his way to South Africa soon.
Jones may be able to resume the tour, according to Gatland (Picture: Getty)
When asked whether Jones would return, he told reporters, ‘There is a chance.’
‘We didn’t believe there was an alternative a few weeks ago.’
The Lions play South Africa A on Wednesday in Cape Town, and there are hopes that the Welshman will be able to return to training in the lead-up to the match.
‘We’re waiting for his medical reports to see what happens,’ Gatland said.
‘He’s been completely training with Wales, and he’ll be working with them this week.’ I believe he’ll have a double session with them tomorrow, and we’ll see how that goes.
‘He’s made a fantastic comeback.’ Having someone of his caliber and expertise return to the squad would be beneficial to the team. We’ll make a decision tomorrow, most likely.’
In the Lions’ warm-up victory against Japan, Jones injured his shoulder (Picture: Getty)
Jones’ return would be a ‘no-brainer,’ according to Lions kicking coach Neil Jenkins, provided the forward can establish his health.
‘He could play a Test series at this level if anybody could,’ he added.
‘It’s a no-brainer if someone of that caliber becomes available and is capable of representing us.’
‘In no way, shape, or form, have I written him off. With Al, nothing shocks me.
‘He’s a fantastic player on and off the field.’
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Gatland has made 12 changes to the Lions starting XV that beat the Sharks, with just Anthony Watson, Chris Harris, and Dan Biggar keeping their spots against South Africa A.
Despite growing concerns over the series after an outbreak of Covid-19 in Rassie Erasmus’ Springbok camp, the match is still set to go ahead.
Since the Lions left on tour, there have been 20 positive instances among the hosts’ party.
Scrum-half for Ireland At Cape Town Stadium, Conor Murray will lead the team.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alun Wyn Jones rejoining the Lions tour?
Unfortunately, Alun Wyn Jones is not rejoining the Lions tour.
What did Alun Wyn Jones do?
Alun Wyn Jones is a Welsh rugby union player who plays for the Ospreys in Wales.
How is Alun Wyn Jones back?
Alun Wyn Jones is back in the game for Wales because he has recovered from his ankle injury.
