Jones fills the third hooker berth in the squad, which had been left vacant due to injury problems, joining Mefin Davies and Gareth Williams.
Luscombe, who impressed on Wales’ summer tour to Argentina and South Africa, was originally left out of Ruddock’s squad for the Springboks, Japan, Romania and New Zealand matches, but has recovered from a shoulder injury to put himself back into contention.
‘Hal would have been included in the initial squad a month ago had it not been for his injury,’ said Ruddock. ‘He is now back to full fitness and therefore is back in the squad.
‘There was always a place in the squad for a third hooker and Steve Jones’ form of late has earned him that place.’
Steve JONES
Club: Newport Gwent Dragons
Born: 20.04.77
Height: 1.78m, 5’10’
Position: Hooker
Birthplace: Wales
Weight: 95kg, 15st 0lb
International Record: 1 cap
(W1, 2001 Japan 1st Test – rep)
Hal LUSCOMBE
Club: Newport Gwent Dragons
Born: 23.02.81
Height: 1.91m 6’3′
Position: Wing
Birthplace: Laingsburg, SA
Weight: 93kg 14st 10lb
International Record: 4 caps
(W 2, L 2; 5 pts – 1T)
2003 S(rep)
2004 Arg, Arg, SA
