For the first time in over a decade the 32-year-old back row has not had to undertake a tour or recover from an injury in the off-season. Jones was overlooked for selection for the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia while Wales opted to blood new talent for the two-Test tour of Japan to give Jones plenty of time to recharge his batteries.
“I feel good as it’s the first summer that I haven’t had an injury or toured in 10 or 11 years which has been a nice change as well so I’m feeling fresh and looking forward to playing some rugby,” said Jones.
Jones led Wales to victory over France, Italy and Scotland in last season’s successful defence of the RBS 6 Nations championship before a broken bone in his right shoulder ended his tournament prematurely.
“My main aim this season first and foremost is to stay fit. I had a bit of a disaster last year with two operations and a couple of broken bones. This year for me is just about enjoying my rugby and so long as I can stay competitive and contribute hopefully I’ve got a future not only with the Ospreys but nationally as well – that’s my goal and I’m working hard to achieve it.”
With Wales facing South Africa, Argentina, Tonga and Australia in the Dove Men Series in November, Jones is determined to prolong his international career.
“Autumn is a special month for the boys,” he said, before adding: “We have some wonderful touring teams coming over – it’s a great opportunity for the fans to come out and really embrace international rugby again ahead of what is going to be a huge Six Nations so for us as players – just after the season is up and running – to come together as a group and turn up at the Millennium Stadium hopefully in front of a packed crowd is great for us and great for the game.”
Tickets to see Wales in action at the Millennium Stadium in the 2013 Dove Men Series – on consecutive weekends from 9thNovember are available now online at www.wru.co.uk/tickets, prices from £25, £10 concession.
Wales Dove Men Series 2013 fixtures:
Wales v South Africa – Saturday, 9 November, Kick-Off 5.30pm – £70 / £60 / £40 / £25
Wales v Argentina – Saturday, 16 November, Kick-Off 2.30pm – £40 / £30 / £10 concession (U16) /£70 Family ticket 2 adults + 2 concession
Wales v Tonga – Friday, 22 November, Kick-Off 7.30pm – £25 / £10 concession/ £60 Family ticket 2 adult + 2 concession/ Minis/Juniors/Schools offer, with every 8 concessions purchased 2 adult tickets free
Wales v Australia – Saturday, 30 November, Kick-Off 5.00pm – £70 / £60 / £40 / £25
