Wales legend Alun Wyn Jones named his three toughest opponents
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After 19 years of unforgettable rugby, Welsh legend Alun Wyn Jones recently reflected on his storied career, revealing the top three second-row giants he faced. Spoiler: They were no pushovers!
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In a glorious send-off in November 2023, the 38-year-old capped his career with a final triumph for Toulon. The Top 14 clash saw Jones receive a standing ovation after leading his team to a 30-27 victory over Clermont Auvergne. And just when you thought it was all over, he made a cheeky return for the last two minutes to help set up the winning try!
Having retired from international rugby in May after 158 caps for Wales, Jones joined Toulon in July for World Cup injury cover.
But as his career is now over, let’s take a look at the second-row legends that made him work hardest.
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ALUN WYN JONES: TOUGHEST OPPONENTS
#1. Paul O’Connell – The Irish Iron Wall
Born: October 20, 1979, Limerick
Major teams: British and Irish Lions, Munster, Ireland
Caps: 115
Position: Lock
Irish icon Paul O’Connell is the definition of tough. A pillar of Munster and Ireland, O’Connell was known for his leadership and raw power. His Lions tours and Six Nations triumphs cemented his place among rugby's elite.
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 took up rugby at 16.
Source: The Rugby Paper
#2. Bakkies Botha – The South African Powerhouse
Born: September 22, 1979, Newcastle, Natal
Major teams: Barbarians, Blue Bulls, Bulls, South Africa A, Toulon, South Africa
Position: Lock
When you think of physical locks, Bakkies Botha is the epitome. Known for his bone-crunching tackles and unmatched work ethic, Botha was a relentless force in the second row. The South African legend's legacy includes multiple Super Rugby and European titles.
Alun Wyn 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 rugby history to win a hat-trick of Super Rugby and European titles.
Source: YouTube
#3. Justin Harrison – The Aussie Lock with a Sense of Humour
Born: April 20, 1974, Sydney, NSW
Major teams: Australia A, Barbarians, Bath Rugby, Brumbies, New South Wales Waratahs, Ulster, Australia
Caps: 34
Position: Lock
Justin Harrison was a fiery competitor on the field and a unique character off it. Known for his no-nonsense approach, he was a key figure in the Wallabies' line-up, contributing to their historic 2001 Lions series win. These days, he’s coaching, but he’ll forever be remembered as a lock with a bit of banter.
Alun Wyn 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 now heads the Australian Rugby Union Players Association (RUPA).
Source: YouTube
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Quiz: Can you all of the Guinness Six Nations winning captains?
Securing victory in the Guinness Six Nations is undoubtedly special, but achieving this triumph as a captain is a feat that remains a distant dream for many.
In the storied history of Rugby’s Greatest Championship, exceptional leaders have emerged—warriors of various forms, be they agile half-backs, towering second rows, or fearless flankers.
Our latest quiz invites you to identify those who have captained their nations to Guinness Six Nations glory. It’s worth noting that in certain instances, there may be multiple captains from the same year due to factors such as injuries and rotation.
Surnames only will be accepted.
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