The versatile Ryan Jones has been one of the most impressive back rows in Europe for the last number of years. It could, though, have been so much different for Jones, as he was a promising footballer and was, at one stage, an academy goalkeeper with Bristol City. Jones instead chose a career in rugby and it was clearly a measured decision. Jones began his career with the now defunct Celtic Warriors but joined the Ospreys in 2004 when the Warriors were disbanded. Jones’ leadership saw him become a valued member of the Ospreys squad and was captain when the region won the EDF cup in the 2007/2008 season and the Magners League in 2009/2010. Jones has been equally important for Wales, winning sixty seven caps and equalling Ieuan Evans record for most appearances as Welsh captain, 28. Jones was selected for the British and Irish Lions 2005 tour of New Zealand and played in all three tests.
Career
 |
British & Irish Lions Openside Flanker |
2005 - 2005 |
 |
Ospreys Openside Flanker |
2004 - 2014 |
 |
Wales Openside Flanker |
2004 - 2015 |
 |
Bristol Bears Openside Flanker |
2014 - 2016 |
