Jones captains Wales
Gareth Jenkins has named Ospreys prop Duncan Jones as his new captain.
New Wales head coach Gareth Jenkins has named Ospreys prop Duncan Jones as his new captain for the summer tour to Argentina.Jones heads a young 28-man squad for the two Test matches they will play against Argentina this summer.
Jenkins replaced Mike Ruddock last month and has rested experienced player such as Stephen Jones, Michael Owen, Robert Sidoli and Martyn Williams, while Gareth Thomas, Dwayne Peel, Brent Cockbain and Ryan Jones are injured.
Instead he has one eye on the World Cup next year and is looking to try out some younger players in the tough tour to South America.
Five uncapped players have made the squad - Ospreys locks Ian Evans and Alun Wyn Jones, hooker Richard Hibbard and Wales under-21 fly-half James Hook plus Dragons prop Rhys Thomas.
"I have looked at the period leading up to the 2007 World Cup, which includes 16 international matches and I have sought expert opinions and advice from medical staff and conditioning coaches," said Jenkins.
"There is no doubt that this summer tour is key to our World Cup aspirations.
"Certain players have not been considered because they are undergoing a period of rehabilitation following injury or operations, others have injuries that need further investigation and possible surgery over the summer.
"There is also a group who are simply in need of rest and a structured conditioning programme leading into a prolonged pre-season programme.
"That process is key if we are to get to September and October with a healthy squad of players who are repaired, re-energised, conditioned and producing performances that they weren't able to last season.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for Duncan and the appointment will give me the chance to see how he handles the responsibility as a potential captain of the future."
