Welsh second row Alun Wyn Jones, who was given a lost for the British and Irish Lions tour after being injured against Japan, will eventually join them in South Africa, coach Warren Gatland announced on Wednesday.
The legendary 36-year-old player with 148 caps in the Welsh jersey, suffered a shoulder injury on June 26 at Twickenham against the Brave Blossoms (28-10) in a preparation match, recovered much faster than initially predicted.
“
It's no surprise to anyone who knows him to know that Alun Wyn has done everything to come back since his injury.
It's remarkable, especially since it's only been eighteen days since he left us in Edinburgh,
”said Gatland.
“
He's been training with Wales since last week.
Yesterday, he did a real training and, after evaluation, the medical staff gave him the green light.
He is obviously anxious to come back.
It's a huge boost for us to find a player of Alun Wyn's caliber
, ”he added.
After a final training session with the Leek XV, Jones will leave Thursday for Cape Town, where the Lions prepare to face the South African franchise of the Stormers on Saturday.
The one who will therefore play his fourth tour with the Lions is already applying for a place in the XV of the Lions for this meeting, of which he had been appointed captain before this tour.