FORMER WALES PROP Adam Jones will retire at the end of the season at the age of 37.
Jones on Sunday announced that he will hang up his boots 18 years after making his professional debut for Neath.
The veteran front-row forward, who went on two British and Irish Lions tours, will remain at Harlequins as assistant forwards coach on a full-time basis when his playing days come to an end.
“I’ll be officially retiring from playing at the end of the season. I’ve had a great career and never thought I’d go on to achieve what I have,” said Jones.
“I’m so passionately proud to have played so many times for Wales and was fortunate to be a part of three Grand Slam-winning teams.
“But it’s time to move onto the next chapter of my career and concentrate on coaching. Coaching is a route I have always wanted to go down, so this is an opportunity for me to work with and learn from two of the best in John Kingston and Graham Rowntree.
“We potentially have the best group of props in the Premiership at Harlequins, with England props Joe Marler, Kyle Sinckler and Will Collier, plus the up-and-coming Lewis Boyce. So I hope to be able to help them push on with Harlequins and at international level.”
Jones won 95 caps for his country and played in three World Cups.
While I’ve been quick to say he hasn’t impressed me at all in some aspects of his play, no denying he has been a great addition. Carty can be up and down with form and fitness and, save a purple patch by Conor Fitzgerald in the middle of 19/20, has had to play when he could do with a break for physical and mental form. Like Carty was flogged last year when Hawkshaw and Fitz were injured, but there was no real alternative. Having someone of Hanrahan’s level there too is great, and I was delighted when he signed.
He also has strengths that you could question Carty can be weak on. While I critique JJ’s attack-manship, another side of that very coin could argue unlike Carty, who seems to put the whole weight and responsiblity of Connacht’s whole attack on his shoulders, JJ is great in trying to utilise playmakers in the centre and SH. As well as having some days where his boot is almost laser guided.
With all respect to himself and Carty though. Post 2025 Connacht need to have a new 10 making strides. Perhaps Harry West or Sean Naughton (who looks like a superstar) can step up? If not maybe look at the 4th or 5th choice in Leinster? Prendergast, Tector, etc.
@David Hickey: Where is Conor Fitzgerald?