Gatland delighted by skipper's progress

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Ospreys star Jones, who led Wales to the RBS 6 Nations title and Grand Slam in 2008, has retained the captaincy for a November programme that features appointments with New Zealand, Samoa, Argentina and Australia.

"I've been very happy with the way Ryan has captained the team over the last few years - he has developed well," said Gatland. "I thought his performances in the two recent European Cup games (for the Ospreys) were a couple of his best, and I thought he performed well against Glasgow (in the Magners League). He carried really well up there, and we think he is coming back into some form and that is good to see."

Gatland's 29-man squad for the November internationals met up on Monday, but Sale Sharks scrum-half Dwayne Peel looks unlikely to be available against New Zealand in 11 days' time.

Because the All Blacks game falls outside the recognised International Rugby Board autumn Test window, Sale are under no obligation to release him.

And Peel's probable absence takes on added significance given that Ospreys number nine Mike Phillips is sidelined for around 12 weeks with a serious ankle injury.

Gatland added: "At this stage, Dwayne is not available for the All Blacks game. He is desperately keen to be involved against New Zealand. He is pretty frustrated by the situation.

"If Sale decide to release him, or Premier Rugby, then there is a possibility he might be part of the 22 for the All Blacks game.

"The sad thing about it is it's the player who is really being affected. I would go out of my way to make sure a player was released.

"Playing international rugby is the pinnacle of any player's career."