Keri Jones, Former Wales and British and Irish Lions Wing, Passes Away at 81

Keri Jones, a former dual-code international rugby player for Wales and the British and Irish Lions, has passed away at the age of 81.

Jones, who was a talented athlete, represented Wales at the 1966 British Empire and Commonwealth Games in Jamaica, competing in the 100 yard, 220 yard, and relay events. He began his rugby career with Neath before moving to Cardiff in 1966, where he earned his first international cap in 1967 against New Zealand.

During his rugby union career, Jones scored tries in the 1968 Five Nations and was selected for the British and Irish Lions' tour of South Africa, although he faced injury challenges. He transitioned to rugby league at 23, joining Wigan, where he played 57 matches and scored 38 tries. His career was cut short at 26 due to recurring hamstring injuries. The Welsh Rugby Union and his former clubs have expressed their condolences to his family.