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London - Wales lock Alun Wyn Jones has withdrawn from Saturday's international against Australia in Cardiff following the death of his father, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) announced Tuesday.
Jones's loss will be a big blow to Wales in their opening end-of-year Test as the second row was in line to captain the side in the absence of regular skipper Sam Warburton, recovering from injury.
"The thoughts and prayers of the WRU and the National Squad are with Alun Wyn Jones & his family following the passing of his father Tim," said a WRU statement.
"Due to this, Alun Wyn will not be considered for selection this weekend."
Tim Jones, a lawyer, played senior rugby as a back-row forward for Welsh club Swansea after appearing for the Welsh Universities.
Swansea chairman Terry Morgan told the Western Mail newspaper: "Tim and I played together from the late 'sixties toward the end of my playing days, and he was an ever present personality with the All Whites Former Players' Association from is inception in 1981, around the time he finished playing."
Wales, bidding for their first win in 12 Tests against Australia, are due to name their side on Thursday.
