Why isn't Alun Wyn Jones playing for Wales against South Africa and when will he return?

WALES are without Alun Wyn Jones as they take on South Africa at the Principality Stadium.

The Dragons will be looking to avenge a Rugby World Cup semi-final defeat to the Springboks but will have to do it without their captain.

Why isn't Alun Wyn Jones playing for Wales against South Africa?

Alun Wyn Jones will not play against South Africa after going off against New Zealand with a shoulder injury.

What is the latest update on Alun Wyn Jones' injury and when will he return?

Alun Wyn Jones made a miracle return from a shoulder injury in summer to captain the Lions in South Africa.

But there's little prospect of that happening this time around.

In fact, the Wales captain is set to miss the Six Nations due to this injury.

Head coach Wayne Pivac said: "I don't think he'll be available for the Six Nations.

"You learn a lot about the worth of people when they're not there. I think a lot of people take Alun Wyn for granted – he's always been there and got seniority.

"That leadership is really important. The essence is on others to step up and take that role on."

But Pivac felt that this injury would not spell the end for the 36-year-old lock.

He commented: "The intention is always to see if Al can get to the World Cup. I think it's a realistic goal personally," the Wales coach said.

"You've just got to see him in training and when he's playing, the efforts he puts in.

"I don't see anything going anywhere near backwards in terms of his performances.

"A bit of time off, we spoke about this before Al left camp. It's not ideal for him.

"We're all looking forward to him playing 150 Test matches for Wales, but that is still a goal and I'm sure he'll get there."

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