The Alun Wyn Jones stat that has blown people’s minds

Jared Wright
Wales lcok Alun Wyn Jones in 2006 and 2019.

Wales lcok Alun Wyn Jones in 2006 and 2019.

Alun Wyn Jones has officially brought his playing career to an end after featuring in his final match for Top 14 club Toulon.

The British and Irish Lions and Wales legend holds multiple records, including being the most capped men’s international in rugby’s history.

Insane stat

However, one mind-blowing statistic has caught people’s attention on social media.

The stat is that Jones has been a professional player for a longer period of time than he hasn’t.

Robert Rees posted the stat on social media platform X on Sunday, revealing the numbers.

His post read: “Days between Alun Wyn Jones’ birth and senior debut: 6792.

“Days between his senior debut and (current) last game: 7146.”

One reply to the post added: “This is insane! What. A. Player.”

“That is an incredible stat!” another read.

Jones made his senior debut for Swansea RFC back in 2005 and has played professional rugby ever since, with his final match coming on 12 November 2023.

The likes of George Smith and Sergio Parisse are among the few players who could rival the Welshman’s longevity at the highest level, with Jimmy Gopperth at club level.

Jones’ achievements

Jones retires having played a record 158 Test matches for Wales and 12 for the British and Irish Lions. A total of 170 Test matches, 17 more than the next best from New Zealand’s Sam Whitelock.

His 12 Test caps for the Lions is a figure that only Willie John McBride and Dickie Jeeps have bettered, but it is the highest tally in the modern era.

Jones was part of five Six Nations title-winning campaigns, including three Grand Slams and four Triple Crowns.

He played in four Rugby World Cup tournaments and could have become just the fourth player to play in five tournaments had he not announced his retirement before the tournament.

He also played over 250 times for the Ospreys, while Toulon was the only other club he represented throughout his career, making six appearances for the side during his short-term deal.

READ MORE: Alun Wyn Jones receives rapturous reception as Wales legend bids farewell

British and Irish Lions Alun Wyn Jones

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