Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones is set to miss the 2022 Six Nations because of a shoulder injury.
The 36-year-old was forced off the field during last Saturday’s defeat against New Zealand and requires surgery.
“I don’t think he’ll be available for the Six Nations,” revealed Wales boss Wayne Pivac.
“You learn a lot about the worth of people when they’re not there. I think a lot of people take Alun Wyn for granted – he’s always been there and got seniority.
“That leadership is really important. The essence is on others to step up and take that role on.”
Jones, who is only contracted with the Ospreys until the end of the season, is thought to be seriously considering his future but is determined to pull on the red jersey of Wales at least one more time.
The concern is that his shoulder, which he has now dislocated twice in a few months, would become a recurring injury ihat would only get worse if he continues to play.
Where to watch the Autumn Nations Series:
Prime members can watch the Autumn Nations Series live from 30th October with the Prime Video app on TVs, mobile devices, Amazon Fire TV, Fire TV Stick, Fire tablets, games consoles, on Virgin’s V6 TV Box, the Talk Talk TV set top box, Apple TV, Chromecast, BT TV or online.
For a list of all compatible devices visit amazon.co.uk/watchanywhere.
“I like his aggression and energy” – Alun Wyn Jones dream forward pack is sensational
Check out the dream forward pack who won praise from the Lions legend in his book.
FRONT-ROW
- 1. Gethin Jenkins (Wales)
- 2. Ken Owens (Wales)
- 3. Kyle Sinckler (England)
Jones on Jenkins: A prop who could tackle and jackal like a blindside.”
Jones on Sinckler: “Kyle Sinckler is good fun, a connection between us in Adam Jones, the tight-head ahead of me for so long for Ospreys and Wales for so long, a coach for him in his formative years was a good icebreaker. I’d like to think we get on. I like his aggression and energy on the pitch. Those are assets that can be harnessed, not controlled.”
