Alun Wyn Jones reveals 'tingle' factor of staying with Wales

If French clubs had the pick of Wales' star players then it is likely that Alun Wyn Jones would feature prominently on their shopping lists.

Jones, though, pledged his future to the Swansea-based Ospreys – a region he now captains – 18 months ago and has no intention of going anywhere.

The 66 times-capped lock has seen his Wales colleagues Mike Phillips, James Hook, Gethin Jenkins and Luke Charteris all head to French rugby's wealthy domestic scene during that time.

Cardiff Blues centre Jamie Roberts will follow them next season, and there is widespread speculation that flanker Dan Lydiate – player of the tournament in last season's Six Nations – stands out as the next top Welsh target.

"Jamie's decision was big for himself and he will have his reasons," said Jones, who will line up against Argentina at the Millennium Stadium today.

"I re-signed for Ospreys 18 months ago, but it was different. Going away as a forward can shorten your career, and I was captain of the region and we were reconfiguring the squad.

"If we do lose players [to France and England] we would still be competitive.

"I still have a tingle about playing for Wales, even driving to training," Jones added.

"A number of people would give anything to be where you are, and that shows the value of it [a cap]. I play every game as if it is my first and my last."

Cardiff teams

Wales

15 L Halfpenny, 14 A Cuthbert, 13 S Williams, 12 J Roberts, 11 G North, 10 R Priestland, 9 T Knoyle; 1 G Jenkins, 2 M Rees, 3 A Jarvis, 4 A W Jones, 5 I Evans, 6 J Turnbull, 7 S Warbur-ton (capt), 8 T Faletau.

Argentina

15 J M Hernandez, 14 G Camacho, 13 G Tiesi, 12 F Contepomi, 11 J Imh-off, 10 N Sanchez, 9 M Landajo; 1 M Ayerza, 2 E Guinazu, 3 J Figallo, 4 M Carizza, 5 J F Cabello, 6 L Senatore, 7 JM L'za-mon, 8 JMF Lobbe (capt)