Wales won't comment on reports Sam Warburton to step down as captaincy - Ruck

Wales won’t comment on reports Sam Warburton to step down as captaincy

  • Sam Warburton is close to stepping down as Wales captain after six years
  • His replacement will be named on 17 January by interim coach Rob Howley
  • Ospreys lock Alun Wyn Jones is the current favourite to take over
The Welsh Rugby Union are refusing to comment on reports that Sam Warburton may step down as Wales captain.

Interim head coach Rob Howley will name his squad for the upcoming Six Nations on January 17 and a captain will be named at the same time.



Reports on Wednesday suggest Ospreys lock Alun Wyn Jones is the prime contender to replace the 28-year-old as skipper from the Six Nations.

“It’s a massive decision. He’s been the captain for so long and it shows his integrity,” former Wales international Emyr Lewis told BBC Radio Wales.

“It shows how unselfish he is and he’s put the Welsh team at the forefront of his reasoning behind it.”


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Wyn Jones has also captained Wales in the past and led the Lions in the final Test in Australia after Warburton was ruled out with injury.

Lewis says the 31-year-old would be a good choice to take over, adding: “Everyone’s got respect for him and it’s going to be an interesting battle now for the number seven position.”

Wales begin their Six Nations campaign on 5 February against Italy.