Jones, 24, was due to start for Mike Ruddock’s Wales side against Canada in Toronto on Saturday in the second match of their North American tour, but now the Ospreys back-rower will join up with Gareth Thomas and company after being chosen as back-up cover to Scottish No.8 Simon Taylor who is currently struggling with a hamstring injury.
It will cap a remarkable season for Newport-born Jones, who made his international debut against South Africa in the Lloyds TSB Autumn Series before playing a vital role in Wales’s RBS Six Nations success. The former Celtic Warrior gave a man of the match performance as Wales romped to a record 77-3 win over the USA Eagles last weekend.
Lions Head Coach Sir Clive Woodward said: “Obviously Simon’s discomfort is causing us some concern, but we are still hopeful that he will be able to work through it and contend for a Test spot. In the meantime we are adding Ryan to the touring party and I offer my congratulations to him. He has had a good season with Wales, he has made an impact on the international scene very quickly and we look forward to him joining us next week.”
Taylor’s injury means Michael Owen will get the chance to press his test claims following his impressive performance in midweek as he steps up off the bench. The Dragons No.8 will return home after the game in Hamilton for the birth of his second child but has been told it will not hamper his chances of facing the All Blacks later this month.
The Scarlets’ Irish international Simon Easterby will get his first taste of Lions action after he took Owen’s place on the bench just four days after being called up to replace the injured Lawrence Dallaglio.
