Wales skipper Alun Wyn Jones finally sorts out his future

Alun Wyn Jones has announced a contract extension with the Welsh Rugby Union and the Ospreys, securing his future in Wales.

The world’s most capped international second row (134 international appearances - 125 for Wales plus nine British and Irish Lions caps) made the announcement directly to supporters on Tuesday morning that he has extended his deal through to June 2021.

Since making his debut for his hometown region, Jones has become the Ospreys’ leading appearance holder, featuring 238 times.

The Wales captain, who is preparing to head to Switzerland with the national squad this week for their first overseas RWC training camp, first signed an NDC back in March 2015. This latest announcement now allows Jones to fully focus on the country’s preparations this summer and will also be a timely boost to incoming head coach Wayne Pivac.

“I’m really pleased to have announced the extension today and to have been able to announce it directly to all those who have supported me throughout my career, especially all the Ospreys supporters.”

In announcing online, Jones said to his supporters: “I have some news I would like to share with you.

“I’m happy to announce that I have signed a contract extension to June 2021 with the Welsh Rugby Union and the Ospreys and will be playing at the Liberty Stadium for the foreseeable future.

“After serious consideration and taking stock of all options, it is the right decision for my career at this point in time, along with my personal ambitions on and off the field, my welfare, and needs of my family.

“I’m grateful to have the opportunity to tell you directly, in particular to the Ospreys supporters and all those who have supported me during my career to date. Thanks, Alun Wyn.”

Commenting on the announcement, WRU CEO Martyn Phillips said: “This announcement is a huge boost for Welsh rugby.

“Alun Wyn is hugely respected across the game and I’m delighted he has committed his future here in Wales and that he will be continuing to play for his hometown region.

“It is a boost for the game both on and off the field and I’m sure the news will delight both Wales and Ospreys supporters alike as he continues to inspire the next generation.

“The extension allows the WRU and the Ospreys to continue working together with Alun Wyn to ensure he has the very best of environments to thrive in.”

Ospreys boss Allen Clarkes added he delight, saying: “Today's announcement is fantastic news for us as a club and all Ospreys and Wales supporters.

"Alun Wyn is a man I have the upmost respect for; he is greatly admired not just because of what he has achieved and what he represents as a local boy playing for his home region and country but importantly because of the ambition and level of performance he consistently displays.

“He's a tremendous individual and a winner with a deep hunger for the Ospreys to be successful on and off the field. Alun Wyn has spent his entire career with the Ospreys and I expect him to continue his legacy as a player and well beyond his playing days.”

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