Wales coach Warren Gatland is confident that British & Irish Lions prop Adam Jones will be back to his dominant best by the time the 2015 World Cup rolls around.
Jones started all three Tests during the Lions’ triumphant tour to Australia last summer and has won three Six Nations Grand Slams in his 100-cap international career.
However, Gatland has selected 21-year-old Samson Lee ahead of him for Wales’ second Test against South Africa on Saturday.
Jones was part of the Wales side which suffered a disappointing 38-16 defeat in the first Test and Gatland believes the break could benefit the decorated veteran.
“Adam has been around for a long time,” he said.
“He will hopefully have a good break now and get things sorted out, contractually-wise and hopefully come back motivated to want to be part of the World Cup squad.
“The ball is in his court at the moment.
“I am not questioning what he has done in the game and what he has achieved and what he has contributed to Welsh rugby, because he’s been a stalwart for a long time.
“It’s a break for him now but it’s an opportunity for Samson to start at three and, potentially, to have a look at Aaron (Jarvis) as well.”
