Wayne Pivac admits it is a big ask for Alun Wyn Jones to feature in Six Nations

Wales boss Wayne Pivac admits it is “a long-shot” that Alun Wyn Jones will play any part in this season’s Guinness Six Nations Championship.

But Pivac claims he would “never say never” as 36-year-old Jones continues his recovery from a shoulder injury.

Jones, who has played in a world record 161 Tests for Wales and the British and Irish Lions, has undergone two operations since he was hurt during the Autumn Nations Series opener against New Zealand in October.

He also had shoulder issues ahead of last summer’s Lions tour to South Africa, but he defied expectation and recovered in time to captain the tourists in all three Tests.

“Never say never. It’s Alun Wyn Jones,” Pivac said.

“I probably wouldn’t enter the conversation if it was anyone else, but the guy has broken so many records.

“I honestly say that I would never say never. But, look, it will be a long-shot, let’s just say that.

“Al is working incredibly hard behind the scenes, as you know he would, to get himself in the best shape possible for either the Ospreys or Wales.”

Wales fly-half Dan Biggar has been appointed captain in Jones’ absence, and he added: “I don’t think any of us expected him to turn up in South Africa in the summer, and he managed to get on the plane.

“If there is anybody who has got a chance of being fit for some part of this tournament, then Al is probably the man. I wouldn’t rule it out just yet.”

Biggar, who will lead Wales when they launch their Six Nations title defence against Ireland next week, has tapped into Jones’ expertise.

Never say never. It’s Alun Wyn Jones. I probably wouldn’t enter the conversation if it was anyone else, but the guy has broken so many records- Wales head coach Wayne Pivac

“I had a chat with Al last week,” Biggar