Wales have been forced into making a change to their backroom team after scrum coach Duncan Jones suffered a freak leg injury during training last week.
Jones sustained damage to both knees after a collision with one of the Welsh players and subsequently missed the team’s first match of the Championship, against England.
It has been confirmed that former Ospreys prop Paul James has joined the Wales coaching team as scrum coach, replacing Jones, who has undergone surgery on the injury.
Scrum coach change
66-cap Grand Slam and Six Nations Championship winner James has been coaching at the Ospreys since late 2018 and was scrum and set-piece coach for Wales U20 in 2021.
Wales head coach Steve Tandy was happy to welcome James into the camp at short notice as they prepare to face France at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff this Sunday.
“It’s great to add Paul to the coaching team and my thanks to the Ospreys for enabling this opportunity at short notice,” Tandy said before touching on the Jones accident.
“We’re all extremely disappointed for Duncan with his injury.
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“He’s been a huge part of the environment and I want to thank him for all that he’s put into the campaign so far.
“He will be really missed around the group and we wish him all the best with his recovery.”
The incoming James added: “I’m excited for the opportunity to come in and coach with Wales. I’m looking forward to doing all I can to help the boys.”
Absolutely gutted
Meanwhile, Jones admitted he was disappointed that his time with Wales has come to an end for the time being but he would be fully behind the side while he recovers.
“I’m absolutely gutted that a freak injury means I’m unable to continue in camp with Wales this Six Nations,” he said.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to coach international rugby and being able to work with this great group of players and staff.
“I will be giving Steve and the squad all my support from the sidelines for the remainder of the Championship.”
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