MX23RW : Sunday, November 24 03:45:41| >> :600:192433:192433:

Alun Wyn Jones expecting "bumpy road" in new Wales era

Alun Wyn Jones expecting
© Reuters
Wales are the reigning Six Nations champions.

Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones has warned it will be a bumpy road for the Guinness Six Nations champions following Warren Gatland's departure.

New head coach Wayne Pivac takes up the reins for last year's Grand Slam winners after Gatland ended his 12-year tenure following Wales' World Cup semi-final defeat against South Africa.

"It is going to be a bumpy road and we cannot shy away from that," said Jones, 34.

"There has been a lot of change and, to a point, we have to cut ties with that.

"But if you continue to look over your shoulder, you will slow yourself down. If we are going to evolve, there are few more things to adapt to, and that is what you want to do.

"I was asked earlier about desire, and why you keep going, and I just remember why I started. I want to play rugby and I want to be involved with Wales.

"It is Wayne's world now and I am looking forward to what is to come."

Wayne Pivac has replaced Warren Gatland as Wales head coach
Wayne Pivac has replaced Warren Gatland as Wales head coach (Ben Birchall/PA)

Pivac confirmed that 18-year-old Gloucester wing Louis Rees-Zammit is set to be available for Wales' opening match against Italy.

The teenager went off injured during his side's Champions Cup defeat against Toulouse on Sunday.

But Liam Williams, who has not played since he injured his ankle at the World Cup, is not due to return until Wales' second fixture with Ireland.

Louis Rees-Zammit has scored 10 tries in 13 appearances for Gloucester
Louis Rees-Zammit has scored 10 tries in 13 appearances for Gloucester (Simon Galloway/PA)

"Louis has worked well with the medical team and he will be back training this morning, doing some running with the boys," said Pivac.

"He will go back to his club this weekend and we will get him back next week.

"Liam is on for round two of the competition. He won't make the Italian match, but is on track for Ireland."

ID:387044: cacheID:387044:1false2false3false:QQ:: from db desktop :LenBod:restore:6417:
Restore Data
Share this article now:
Rhys Webb pictured in December 2017
Read Next:
Wales scrum-half Rhys Webb cleared for Six Nations selection
>
rhs 2.0
Today's games header
6pm
Vikings
@
Bears
6pm
Lions
@
Colts
6pm
Patriots
@
Dolphins
6pm
Buccaneers
@
Giants
6pm
Chiefs
@
Panthers
6pm
Titans
@
Texans
6pm
Cowboys
@
Washington
9.05pm
Broncos
@
Raiders
9.25pm
49ers
@
Packers
9.25pm
Cardinals
@
Seahawks


Sports Mole provides in-depth previews and predictions for every match from the biggest leagues and competitions in world football.
Argentina's Lionel Messi kisses the World Cup trophy after collecting the Golden Ball award on December 18, 2022Sign up for our FREE daily preview newsletter direct to your inbox!