Wasps offer Jones Premiership comeback
September 14, 2001

Former All Black lock will complete a surprise return to the Zurich Premiership later today when he signs for London Wasps.

His signature, that comes just in time for registration for this year's Heineken Cup, is a coup for Wasps' director of rugby Nigel Melville whose sqiad is currently riddled with injuries. Although Jones has not played for four months he is hopeful of regaining full match fitness as soon as possible.

Jones, 33, ended his association with the Zurich Premiership at the end of last season when he parted company acrimoniously with Gloucester to return home to New Zealand to work for the NZRFU.

Capped 79 times by New Zealand, he has signed a three-month contract at Loftus Road but the deal may be extended to the end of the season if it proves successful.

According to The Times newspaper Melville approached Bart Campbell, the managing director of Global Sports Management, agents for Craig Dowd, the Wasps prop who is a friend of Jones. Campbell telephoned Jones on Tuesday and the deal was sealed within 48 hours.

Jones said: "I cannot believe it. I jumped at the opportunity. It is great to be coming back to the Premiership. I can assure all Wasps fans that I am determined to make a success of it."

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