Alun Wyn Jones bids what could be a fond farewell to rugby in Barbarians vs Swansea

Alun Wyn Jones said goodbye to rugby on a gloriously sunny evening in Swansea.

To say Welsh rugby has had its fair share of trouble this season is an understatement, but it delivered a show that showcased what St Helen’s has to offer to honor a true great. Jones, 37 and the world’s most capped international, has now retired from international rugby and it remains unclear whether or not he will continue playing at club level next season.

If this was the iconic lock forward’s last game, it couldn’t have been more fitting. Jones captained the Barbarians in the first half against Swansea, before playing for his hometown club in the second half. The friendly meeting took place under wonderful circumstances.

The sun was shining, the beer was flowing and the stands were packed at St Helen’s. A crowd of 6,238 poured in with Jones as the main attraction.

Jones’ wife Anwen and his three children were also there.

The Welsh legend played for the Barbarians and then switched sides to Swansea

If this was Jones’ farewell, St. Helen’s was the perfect place to say goodbye.

Jones’ late father Tim – whom he adored – played for Swansea just like his grandfather, so the club holds a special place in his heart.

Jones credits Bonymaen as his first rugby club, but it was in Swansea where he first got a taste of what it takes to play professional rugby while still at Ospreys academy.

The rest, as they say, is history.

Jones ended what has to be regarded as Wales’ greatest ever career in shocking fashion earlier this month. Only Sir Gareth Edwards can rival him as Wales’ all-time number 1.

Jones has won three Six Nations grand slams, five Six Nations Championships and a staggering total of 170 Test caps. It is unlikely that his world record will ever be beaten.

Of his 170 caps, 158 came with Wales and 12 with the Lions with whom he toured in 2009, 2013, 2017 and 2021. Jones won in Australia and drew in New Zealand with the Lions.

His time at the highest level is now over. His place in rugby folklore has long been assured.

Whether this was a farewell remains to be seen.

But the smile on Jones’ face during the Barbarians’ 68-33 victory over Swansea showed how much he relished the occasion.

The Welsh legend has retired from international rugby and his club’s future is uncertain

After playing for the Barbarians in their victory over a World XV at Twickenham last Sunday and attempting two conversions, Swansea was the next stop on Jones’ farewell tour.

He played for both teams at St Helen’s – a beautiful historic ground that has seen some real greats play at the venue over the years in both rugby and cricket.

Sir Garfield Sobers famously hit six sixes at St Helen’s for Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan in 1968 and like the great West Indian, Jones too has had his career crushed.

On the same day that Wales scrum half followed Rhys Webb Jones and Justin Tipuric as they retire from international rugby on the eve of the World Cup, the encounter was all about fun.

Jones seemed in for a laugh, dribbling a soccer ball in the warm-up and joking around with Bradley Davies.

This was definitely the last game for Davies – Jones’ fellow former Wales lock.

Jones had pictures with his three children as he led off the Barbarians and his name was loudly applauded at the start of a game that saw a total of 15 tries scored.

He showed his competitive side in a bit of an early snag with Swansea striker Tom Sloane.

Fans in Wales were full of appreciation for the slot, which leaves a remarkable legacy

This game was part of Swansea’s 150th anniversary from the Welsh Premiership and it was a great occasion for the club.

Jones put in a big tackle in the first half and brilliantly collected a restart in acrobatic fashion.

But this wasn’t about the rugby. It was a celebration of Jones’ career. At the final whistle, he was mobbed by fans leaving the pitch and shared a tender moment with his family.

Parting? Maybe. A moment to remember for Jones. Certainly.