Keri Jones, Former Wales and British Lions Rugby Star, Dies Aged 81
- Cardiff RFC confirmed the death of former Wales and British & Irish Lions international Keri Jones on 29 October 2026
- Jones earned five Wales caps, toured South Africa with the Lions in 1968, and later represented Great Britain in rugby league
- The Welsh sporting great also competed as a sprinter at the 1966 Commonwealth Games in Kingston, Jamaica
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Cardiff RFC announced on Thursday, 30 October 2026, that former Wales and British & Irish Lions wing Keri Jones passed away on the morning of 29 October at the age of 81.
Jones, who attended Ystalyfera Grammar School, began his first-class rugby career with Neath, making his debut in a 6-0 win over Maesteg in September 1964.
He subsequently moved to Cardiff RFC in 1965, though he briefly stepped away from the sport to pursue athletics, earning selection for the Welsh Commonwealth Games team at the 1966 Games in Kingston, Jamaica, where he competed in the 100 yards, 220 yards and sprint relay.
A Decorated Career in Both Codes
Upon returning to rugby union, Jones played a further 58 games for Cardiff and scored 30 tries across the 1966-67 and 1967-68 seasons. He earned five caps for Wales, including his debut against New Zealand in 1967, and represented the Barbarians. He also toured South Africa with the British & Irish Lions in 1968 before switching codes to join Wigan RLFC later that year.
In rugby league, Jones added two Great Britain caps to his record, appearing against France and New Zealand at the 1970 Rugby League World Cup held in England.
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Tributes From Former Clubs
Cardiff RFC released a formal statement expressing their condolences, noting that Jones had remained an active member of the club's Former Players Association until ill-health affected him earlier in 2026.
"We send our sincere condolences to Keri's wife, Andrea, and their two daughters Lynne and Elen, at this sad time," the club said.
Neath RFC also paid tribute, describing Jones as a product of Ystalyfera Grammar School and acknowledging his contribution to the club at the outset of his career. "Neath RFC's condolences go to his family and friends," the club stated.
Source: Briefly News
