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An emotional Alun Wyn Jones said he was “proud” to represent Wales despite Sunday’s World Cup semi-final defeat against South Africa.
Warren Gatland’s side fell to a narrow 16-19 loss as Handre Pollard converted a late penalty.
There was no way back for Wales, who had already fought back to level the scores at 16-16. But a visibly dejected Jones praised the efforts of his teammates.
“I think we showed it today. We stayed in the arm wrestle, but we probably piggy-backed them down the park for the penalty,” said the Welsh captain.
“South Africa took advantage, so congratulations to them.”
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Jones, Wales’ record cap holder, made his 133rd appearance at the Yokohama International Stadium, a total bettered only by New Zealand’s Richie McCaw.
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