Lions will make a decision on whether to fly captain Alun Wyn Jones out to South Africa tour on THIS EVENING… as they wait to see how the 35-year-old responds to today’s double training session after his quick recovery from dislocated shoulder
- The Lions will see how Alun Wyn Jones responds to a double training on Tuesday
- From that they will make a decision as to whether he joins them in South Africa
- Jones dislocated his shoulder in their opening match against Japan on June 26
- If he manages training, he could return for Saturday’s clash with the Stormers
The British and Irish Lions will see how Alun Wyn Jones responds to a double training session on Tuesday before making a decision on whether to fly him to South Africa.
Jones’ remarkable recovery from the dislocated shoulder that appeared to have ended his tour in the opening match against Japan on June 26 has reached a decisive phase.
He joined Welsh training last Friday at their Vale of Glamorgan base – taking part in some lower-key games with the squad – and then this Tuesday spent the morning in full contact with Wayne Pivac’s forwards before doubling up with the whole squad again in the afternoon.
Alun Wyn Jones dislocated his shoulder in their opening match against Japan on June 26
It is understood that Warren Gatland will consult with Welsh medics on Tuesday evening and make a final call – which could see Jones re-integrated into the squad as early as Thursday in Cape Town if he is given the green light.
Wales are preparing for their second Test against Argentina on Saturday in Cardiff and have been boosted by their skipper’s remarkable return.
Wales’ forwards coach Gethin Jenkins, who played with Jones for many years with the national team and the Lions, said: ‘He was blowing a bit this morning. It’s been pretty hot.
‘It’s good to see him among the environment and he’s obviously got an end goal.
‘I know the professional he is and the standards he sets. Fingers crossed, I hope he does get back.
‘It’s a tough pill to swallow not to go on the tour after that Japan game. I think he’ll be doing everything he can to get out there.’
The British and Irish Lions will see how Jones responds to a double training on Tuesday
From that they will make a decision as to whether he joins the squad out in South Africa
And hooker Elliot Dee added: ‘He is a model professional.
‘It’s no surprise he’s done what he’s done in the game, just from the way he leads by actions and the way he goes about the place.
‘It’s been brilliant to see Al back in training. We wish him all the best if he can go on and get back out on that tour.’
Warren Gatland will make a decision of Jones’ involvement on Wednesday morning
Named as the original tour captain, the Wales skipper was replaced by Conor Murray