British & Irish Lions second-row Alun Wyn Jones has reaffirmed his commitment to Wales after penning a new contract until 2021.
The three-time tourist and reigning Guinness Six Nations Player of the Championship has signed a new deal with the Welsh Rugby Union and club side the Ospreys.
Jones remains the first player to make nine consecutive Test appearances for the Lions since the game turned professional in 1995 and has four Six Nations winner’s medals to his name – he also captained the Lions in the third Test of their victorious 2013 Tour of Australia.
The 33-year-old is the world’s most-capped second-rower of all time (134 including his nine British & Irish Lions Tests) and will soon be chasing the outright record of 148 held by Richie McCaw.
“I have some news I would like to share with you,” Jones announced via his social media profiles.
“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.”
Jones is now preparing to head to Switzerland with the Welsh national squad for a training camp.
“This announcement is a huge boost for Welsh rugby,” added Martyn Phillips, the group chief executive of the Welsh Rugby Union.
“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.”
