Alun Wyn Jones has penned a new contract keeping him at the Ospreys through to 2021.
The Wales captain has spent his entire club career in Swansea and has ended speculation surrounding his future after the Rugby World Cup.
A Lions captain and tourist on three occasions, Jones has long been a formidable leader for his country in leading them to the Six Nations Grand Slam at the start of this year.
That accomplishment heightened expectations for Wales’ chances of reaching a first World Cup final in Japan, with Warren Gatland’s side heading to the Asian host-county on a 14-Test winning streak.
The 33-year-old was the first to announce he had extended his contract, doing so via social media.
“I’m happy to announce that I have signed a contract extension to June 2021 with the Welsh Rugby Union and the Ospreys and will be playing at the Liberty Stadium for the foreseeable future,” Jones wrote on his Instagram.
“I’m really pleased to have announced the extension today and to have been able to announce it directly to all those who have supported me throughout my career, especially all the Ospreys supporters.
“After serious consideration and taking stock of all options, it is the right decision for my career at this point in time, along with my personal ambitions on and off the field, my welfare and needs of my family.
“I’m grateful to have the opportunity to tell you directly, in particular to the Ospreys supporters and all those who have supported me during my career to date.”
With his previous deal set to expire in November, interest in Jones’ signature saw him linked with moves to the Premiership to Leicester Tigers and Bath.
But the 125-cap lock has committed to carry on playing in the PRO14.
Ospreys head coach Allen Clarke expressed his respect for a man he is deeply enamored to working with.
“Today’s (Tuesday) announcement is fantastic news for us as a club and all Ospreys and Wales supporters.
Alun Wyn is a man I have the upmost respect for; he is greatly admired not just because of what he’s achieved and what he represents as a local boy playing for his home region and country but importantly because of the ambition and level of performance he consistently displays.
“He’s a tremendous individual and a winner with a deep hunger for the Ospreys to be successful on and off the field. Alun Wyn has spent his entire career with the Ospreys and I expect him to continue his legacy as a player and well beyond his playing days.”
Commenting on the announcement, chief executive of the WRU, Martyn Phillips, said: “This announcement is a huge boost for Welsh rugby.
“Alun Wyn is hugely respected across the game and I’m delighted he has committed his future here in Wales and that he will be continuing to play for his hometown region.
“It is a boost for the game both on and off the field and I’m sure the news will delight both Wales and Ospreys supporters alike as he continues to inspire the next generation.
“The extension allows the WRU and the Ospreys to continue working together with Alun Wyn to ensure he has the very best of environments to thrive in.”
