Laughter has been in short supply at Wales press conferences in recent times, but Jones ensured there was a jovial atmosphere at the beginning of another potentially turbulent campaign.

There is also major substance to Jones. He has outstanding pedigree having won 95 Wales caps during an 11-year international career that included four Six Nations titles, three Grand Slams and three World Cups.

He also played in five British and Irish Lions Tests across the 2009 tour to South Africa and then Australia four years later.

He is a rugby and sport expert. On his return to Wales media duty, Jones pointed to his record 18 successful answers on BBC quiz show ‘A Question of Sport’, an achievement which – as he reminded those listening – made presenter Sue Barker’s autobiography.

Jones also explained how the return to the Welsh international fold came about.

“I’ve had communication with the management asking if I wanted to come in and help out,” said Jones.

“With Humphs (Wales forwards coach Jonathan Humphreys) doing the breakdown, line-out and scrum, it’s a fair workload. So I’m chuffed to get the nod.”

Jones says he has been encouraged by first impressions.

“I have seen how hard everyone is working, how much they want to win,” he added.

“You can see the boys are hurting – it’s natural. If boys want to work hard, you can’t ask for more.

“I’m sure the nation will get behind them and hopefully we can get off to a good start.”

Jones says it has been difficult to see Wales struggling from his base in England.

“I’m a proud Welshman,” he said.

“It’s been hard to see what’s happened in the last couple of years but the boys and coaches are working hard to put things right.”