Stephen Jones praises ‘brilliant’ Jonathan Davies as he approaches milestone

Jonathan Davies has been described as a “brilliant player and brilliant person” as he prepares for membership of international rugby’s 100-club.

Davies will clock up a century of Wales and British and Irish Lions Test match appearances if he features in Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations opener against Ireland.

And it would also represent a major triumph over adversity, considering how serious injuries have often stalled the 33-year-old Scarlets centre’s career.

Lions player of the series against New Zealand in 2017, Davies has overcome major knee issues, displaced metatarsals in his foot and a ruptured chest muscle – among other injuries.

It also meant he missed major events like the 2015 World Cup and entire Six Nations campaigns in 2018 and 2020.

But despite those setbacks he has remained among Wales’ most consistent performers since making his debut against Canada in Toronto almost 13 years ago.

And Wales assistant coach Stephen Jones, a former Wales and Scarlets playing colleague, has no doubt about Davies’ continued influence at the highest level.

He drives standards and is a class act – it is as simple as that- Wales assistant coach Stephen Jones

“Jonathan Davies is a brilliant player and a brilliant person. He is a key member of our group,” Jones said.

“He drives standards and is a class act – it is as simple as that. With the brain, knowledge and wealth of experience Jonathan has – with his physical attributes – he is a massive asset to us.

“It is so important to remember the injuries he has had along his career have been serious ones. It shows a mental toughness and resilience that Jonathan has.

“We know what a world-class person and player he is, but the incredible work he puts in behind the scenes to carry on