In what promises to be the final swan song of an illustrious career, Welsh rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones is gearing up for his final match as he starts for Toulon against ASM Clermont Auvergne this Saturday. 

Despite being rested in the previous week's 31-26 victory over Racing 92, Jones returns to the starting XV alongside England's David Ribbans in the second row at the Stade Marcel Michelin. 

Toulon, sixth place in the league, aims to leapfrog the team positioned just above it in the standings.

Having announced his international retirement in May, the former Wales and British & Irish Lions captain joined Top 14 outfit Toulon as a medical joker in July, providing cover during the World Cup. However, Toulon recently confirmed that Jones's contract will not be extended beyond this weekend. 

With no new club on the horizon after his stint on the Cote d’Azur, this match marks the curtain call of an extraordinary career, though surprises in the 170-cap international’s future cannot be entirely ruled out.

Reflecting on his impending final match, Jones expressed gratitude this week.

“I never thought I’d be here finishing my career," he said. "I’m just really grateful to Toulon, particularly the players and staff for the welcome I’ve had." 

Despite his relatively short four-month tenure, Jones acknowledged the impact of other foreign players and expressed appreciation for the warm welcome received from fans and the city of Toulon. 

He concluded, "I’d just like to thank everyone and hopefully, we can get the win at the weekend."

The 38-year-old already experienced a poignant sendoff at the Principality Stadium, captaining the Barbarians against Wales earlier this month. The match served as a farewell for Jones's BaaBaas teammates Justin Tipuric and Leigh Halfpenny, both of whom retired around the same time, adding an extra layer of significance to an already emotional occasion. 

As Alun Wyn Jones prepares for his final bow in the Toulon jersey, rugby enthusiasts around the world are poised to witness the end of an era.