On that occasion he headed to New Zealand as a replacement, scored on his debut against Otago and ended up playing in all three Tests.

The world champion Springboks are already relishing the chance to take on Jones ahead of next year's Lions tour and the 27-year-old Welshman is among the bookies favourites to captain the combined side.

"Being out in South Africa with the Lions in 12 months time is certainly a medium-term goal for me," said Jones.
"For any British player, that is the top of the tree and I am fortunate to know how special it would be if I could achieve that again."
Jones is leading a squad of 26 to South Africa for the two Prince William Cup Tests in Bloemfontein and Pretoria. And his credentials, along with those of his team, are well known in South Africa.

"Ryan is one of the best No8s in the world. He has been constantly good since bursting on the scene in 2005," was the verdict of Springboks back row star Juan Smith.

"He has two Grand Slams to his name and that says a lot about the player. He is a really good, inspirational leader and the Welsh side draw a lot of energy from him. "You don't win the Six Nations championship without a bloody good back row and this Welsh team has quality everywhere.

"James Hook at No 10 and Shane Williams on the wing are also guys we will have to watch out for."