Ryan Jones Announces Retirement

The former British & Irish Lion and Wales captain made fifteen appearances for Bristol Rugby, with his last outing in the blue and white hoops coming in the play-off final first leg defeat to Worcester.

Jones - who has earned seventy-five caps for his country, winning three Grand Slams in the process – ends his playing career at the age of 34.

“This wasn’t an easy decision for me to make, but there comes a time when I have to accept that my body is not able to cope with the rigours of professional rugby anymore.

“I’m been incredibly fortunate to play the game I love for so long and have some amazing experiences and meet wonderful people.

“I’m so proud to be able to say I captained Wales and played for the British Lions – I’ve accomplished everything I wanted to in rugby.

“There’s a tinge of regret that we were unable to achieve promotion last season, but I’m grateful to the players, staff and supporters at Bristol for the way I have been welcomed here.”

An IRB International Player of the Year nominee in 2008, Jones spent ten years at the Ospreys, making 147 appearances.

Director of Rugby Andy Robinson added: “On behalf of everybody at Bristol Rugby, I’d like to congratulate Ryan on a fine career.

“What he has achieved at the very highest level for his country and the Lions is fantastic and underlines his qualities as a person and a player. He was a very tough opponent to coach against, and a great player to coach.

“Ryan’s time at Bristol Rugby has been hugely beneficial for the development of our team culture and game understanding. I would like to thank him for his contribution to the Club.”