Scarlets coach Jones to miss Wales tour
Wales have announced that Scarlets backs coach Stephen Jones will not form part of the nation's coaching staff for the June Tests against Tonga and Samoa.
With Scarlets having finished third in Pro12, they face a semi-final clash with Leinster on May 19 and Jones felt unable to adequately fulfil his international commitments based on that workload.
The former Wales fly-half told the Wales Rugby Union website: "Firstly, I would like to thank [interim head coach] Robin [McBryde] for his support and understanding on this matter.
"It was a huge honour to be named as part of Robin's coaching set-up for the summer tour and I am grateful to Robin for giving me that opportunity.
"Having said that we are delighted, as a region, to be in a position to be playing for silverware and the Scarlets has to take precedence. Reaching the play-offs means an extended season and increased workload meaning that I can't give my undivided attention to preparing for the tour.
"I wish the coaching group, and the players alike, the very best of luck in the two-Test tour, but am also looking forward to the next few weeks with the Scarlets as we push for a place in the final."
Last week Cardiff Blues coach Danny Wilson also withdrew from Wales' team, which will be led by McBryde with Warren Gatland on British and Irish Lions duty.
Wales have named a 32-man squad featuring 13 new faces.
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Dear Ben Smith you are a genius! God please become the next all blacks coach that can take on the mighty BOKS. Your rugby acumen is second to none - imagine your dads sperm bounced as unfortunately as that oval ball did….we would not be blessed with your presence. Just as the all blacks were missing a man you too are missing a chromosome for 80% of your life, so your insights are not only profound but ring true from your own experiences. Just as the TMO interfered with citing an illegal pass I am sure your local authorities interfere with your illegal passes you make on women - How dare they!!! God forbid that rugby be officiated fairly. You are the right man for the job. Next all blacks coach is here ladies and gentlemen Miss Ben Smith (He/She/They/IT)
Go to commentsHuge engine this guy and great to see him back ..The amount of clean outs he does at the ruck are ridiculous !!
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