Jones set to skipper Wales

Stephen Jones looks set to lead Wales against New Zealand at the Millennium Stadium after finally shaking off his twisted knee.

The British Lions outside-half has been sidelined since limping off in the 29-29 draw against Australia on November 4.

"I'm confident of playing and I'll be taking a full part in training," said Jones. "I'm back to full fitness and ready. I haven't lost any aerobic fitness because I have still been able to run in a straight line. Lateral movement has been the problem."

He added: "It has been a bit frustrating over the last couple of weeks. I have only had 20 minutes on the pitch but I'm just fortunate to be part of a good squad."

While Jones is almost a certainty to make coach Gareth Jenkins' starting line-up, there are still injury doubts over Gareth Thomas (knee) and Gavin Henson (infected toe).

"With Gareth, he has had a scan and we are awaiting the results of that," confirmed Wales attack coach Nigel Davies.

"All the reports on Gavin before the weekend were positive and suggested he would be okay. We are very positive he will be fit."