Jones out to match Habana - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Jones out to match Habana

Wales winger Mark Jones is relishing his duel with predatory Springbok superstar Bryan Habana in Saturday's opening Test in Bloemfontein.

Habana is the International Rugby Board player of the year and is regarded as the most deadly finisher in the game.

"In modern-day sport, you want to come up against the best in the world," said Jones. "Habana's certainly up there at the moment. He's had a fantastic season and is on top of his game, so it's a huge challenge."

Jones added: "He's got raw pace - there's no doubt about that - but he's developed his all-round game as well.

"His reading of when the intercept pass is on is uncanny. Many of his tries for South Africa and the Blue Bulls come from intercepts.

"You have to be wary of that. He doesn't do it all the time - he just mixes up his defence very well.

"He makes his tackles and also like to compete for the ball after he's made a tackle. His kicking is good too.

"He's renowned for his finishing and game-breaking ability - but actually he's a very good all-round player.

"I hope when I come up against him I'll put on a good show and won't let anyone down."

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