Tragedy and farce test Wales' spirit

Wales captain Ryan Jones knows tonight's match with France is about more than just rugby after a series of setbacks that would have undermined lesser squads.

The Welsh players will wear black arm bands following the sudden death of Bradley Davies's mother Cheryl.

The lock was given time off to be with his family in the build-up to the Cardiff clash but has decided to play in honour of his mother.

Meanwhile, Wales boss Warren Gatland dropped Andy Powell in the wake of his infamous celebrations following the 31-24 win over Scotland which saw the flanker being charged with drink-driving after taking a golf buggy down the M4.

Gatland has also had to deal with injuries to key players, including the Lions trio of Alun-Wyn Jones, Gethin Jenkins and Matthew Rees.

"We've had a rollercoaster of emotions individually and collectively as a squad," said Jones. "International rugby is quite stressful and uncompromising but everyone knows what is expected of them in this environment.

"If you let yourself down, then you will pay the price."