Alun Wyn Jones didn't even blink when asked who his toughest opponent was
Today at 11:34 AM
Alun Wyn Jones, the Welsh rugby legend, recently reflected on his illustrious career by revealing the top three second-row opponents he faced throughout his remarkable journey.
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Concluding his 19-year career with a triumphant performance for Toulon in November, the 38-year-old received a standing ovation after captaining the team to a 30-27 victory over Clermont Auvergne in the Top 14 fixture.
During the game, Jones, now the most capped player in rugby history, was celebrated by both teams as he left the field after 66 minutes. However, in a surprising twist, he made a brief reappearance as a replacement for the final two minutes, playing a crucial role in setting up the winning try.
Having retired from international rugby in May after earning 158 caps for Wales, Jones joined Toulon in July as injury cover for the World Cup.
In addition to his impressive on-field achievements, the ex-British & Irish Lions lock shared his star-studded list of the three toughest second-row opponents he encountered during his extraordinary career.
ALUN WYN JONES: TOUGHEST OPPONENT
#1. Paul O’Connell
- Born October 20, 1979, Limerick
- Major teams British and Irish Lions, Munster, Ireland
- Caps 115
- Position Lock
Irish rugby icon, Paul O’Connell, is celebrated for his exceptional leadership and prowess as a lock. A stalwart of Munster and the Irish national team, O’Connell’s career highlights include Six Nations triumphs and Lions tours, solidifying his status as one of the game’s great leaders.
Alun Wyn Jones said: “We got to know each other very well as team-mates with the Lions and opponents for our clubs and countries. You cannot shy away from how effective the guy was in his position."
Did you know? O’Connell initially excelled at swimming and only started playing rugby at the age of 16
Source:The Rugby Paper
#2. Bakkies Botha
- Born September 22, 1979, Newcastle, Natal
- Major teams Barbarians, Blue Bulls, Bulls, South Africa A, Toulon, South Africa
- Position Lock
Renowned South African rugby legend, Bakkies Botha, is a formidable force known for his powerful presence on the field. With a career spanning over a decade, the towering lock forward has left an indelible mark with his ferocious tackles and relentless work ethic.
Jones said: “He revelled in it didn’t he. Physically he has to be up there. Let’s just say he was able to keep the tradition going of the hardest of South African second rows.”
Did you know? Botha is the only player in the history of rugby union to date to have won a hat trick of Super Rugby and European rugby titles
Source:Youtube
#3. Justin Harrison
- Born April 20, 1974, Sydney, NSW
- Major teams Australia A, Barbarians, Bath Rugby, Brumbies, New South Wales Waratahs, Ulster, Australia
- Caps 34
- Position Lock
Australian rugby personality Justin Harrison is remembered for his tenacity as a lock forward. A key figure in the Wallabies and Brumbies, Harrison’s career featured memorable performances, including his role in Australia’s 2001 Lions series victory.
Post-retirement, he transitioned to coaching, contributing to the sport’s development.
Jones said: “Away from the physical side, banter-wise it would have to be Aussie lock Justin Harrison. He was interesting to play against to say the least.”
Did you know? He is currently the head of the Australian Rugby Union Players Association (RUPA)
Source:Youtube
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Five British and Irish Lions hopefuls who FLOPPED in Six Nations round three
Steve Borthwick's men survived a late scare as Finn Russell's conversion slid wide, allowing them to snatch their first win over Scotland since 2020. Meanwhile, Wales looked revitalized under Matt Sherratt, producing their best display of the tournament so far.
But who had a weekend to forget? RUCK Editor Steve Smith takes a look at five players who struggled in round three.
Henry Slade – England
So much talent, yet another disappointing display on the international stage. Slade had a torrid time against Scotland, missing key tackles that left England exposed.
His defensive lapses piled pressure on his teammates, while his attacking contribution was minimal—offering little creativity in midfield. With fierce competition for places, could this be the end of the road for him under Steve Borthwick?
Nowhere near the Lions conversation right now.
Finn Russell – Scotland
A night to forget for Scotland's co-captain. While his passing and movement constantly tested England's defence, his goal-kicking proved costly.
In a game of fine margins, his missed kicks—especially the late conversion that drifted wide—ultimately defined the result. A fly-half of his quality is expected to deliver in clutch moments, and he'll know he left points behind. Scotland fans won't let this one slide easily.
The Lions will want their No. 10 to be reliable off the tee. Fin Smith and Sam Prendergast are breathing down his neck.
Jack Dempsey – Scotland
Struggled to make his mark in an intense physical battle. He carried with intent but was let down by handling errors and poor decision-making at key moments.
Scotland needed stability in the back row, but Dempsey was too often on the fringes rather than in the thick of it. A frustrating afternoon where his effort wasn't matched by execution, leaving Scotland's pack without the control he was expected to bring.
The No. 8 jersey for the Lions remains up for grabs, though Caelan Doris leads the charge for the 2025 tour.
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