The Ospreys announced this morning that 28-year-old Wales stalwart Jones has put pen-to-paper on a contract which will keep him in the country until beyond the next Rugby World Cup.
Jones made his international debut as a 19-year-old during the two-Test tour of Argentina in 2005 and has gone on to captain both his country and the British and Irish Lions (notably in the deciding Test of their historic victory over Australia last summer) as well as playing an integral part in the 2008 and 2012 RBS 6 Nations Grand Slams and last year’s retention of the Championship title.
“Thisisgreat news for the Ospreys and great news for Welsh rugby, we are delighted that a player of Alun Wyn Jones’ ability and stature in the world game has decided to commit his immediate future to his Region and to Wales,” said Mr Lewis, who was able to personally congratulate Jones this morning (Fri) at WRU national squad headquarters where preparations for the 2014 RBS 6 Nations Championship opener against Italy a week on Saturdayare in full flow.
“Alun Wyn is in the prime of his career and the Ospreys should be commended for the work they have done to secure such a marquee signature.
“Indeed, under the WRU’s proposed Rugby Services Agreement, which is currently being reviewed by the Regions, the Ospreys will be significantly rewarded for retaining a Welsh qualified player.
“This is a significant signing and, importantly, it meets with the Welsh Rugby Union’s stated objectives of keeping Welsh qualified players in Wales.
“This moment should also not pass without a commendation for Alun Wyn and the commitment he has shown to his country and his Region. Alun Wyn is a player of international repute, but he is also a proud Welshman and the decision he has made will, today, be welcomed by a nation which is equally proud of him.”
Speaking about his new deal, Alun Wyn commented: “I’m very happy to be able to resolve my future, which means I can now concentrate solely on my rugby. It’s flattering to have received offers from elsewhere, but at this point in my career my focus is on being in the right environment to ensure the longevity of both my domestic and international career.
“It’s important to me that I’m playing the right level of rugby to ensure I am at my best, which is why it makes sense for me to accept the offer on the table from the Ospreys.”
