Six Nations

Wales ready to face 'most French side possible'

2019-01-31 19:39
Alun Wyn Jones is among the many Joneses who have donned the Dragons jersey down the years. Picture: David Rogers/Getty Images

Parise - Wales captain Alun-Wyn Jones says he's ready to tackle "the most French side possible" in the Six Nations opener on Friday.

Jones, 31, faces France for the 12th time since his first meeting against Les Bleus in 2007.

Jacques Brunel has named two sons of former internationals in Romain Ntamack and Damien Penaud in his back-line for the game at the Stade de France.

They will line up behind a monstrous pack with second-rows in Paul Willemse and Sebastien Vahaamahina both measuring taller than two metres. 

In front of them is giant tight-head prop Uini Atonio and mobile loose-head Jefferson Poirot as well as captain Guilhem Guirado at hooker.

"It's one of the most French sides I've ever played against. You look at the players they've picked in the backline, a few players coming into the side, a new cap in Ntamack in the centre as well," he said in Paris on Thursday.

"We're fully aware of the strengths they have and the way they're likely to play with a pack who like to drive a lot and some ball players behind."

The former British and Irish Lions captain will lead a side which includes Six Nations debutant Tomos Williams at scrumhalf.

Jones praised 1.55m Williams's recent performances for the Cardiff Blues, scoring four tries in 14 games for the region this season.

"People say small in stature but he's had big games for the Blues, hopefully he can maintain the form he has had into the red jersey," Jones said.

Read more on:    france  |  wales  |  six nations  |  alun-wyn jones  |  rugby

 

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Friday, 01 February 2019
France v Wales, Stade de France 22:00
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Scotland v Italy, BT Murrayfield Stadium 16:15
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