WALES lock Alun Wyn Jones has withdrawn from Saturday's autumn Test series opener against Australia following the death of his father.

In a statement, the Welsh Rugby Union said: "The thoughts and prayers of the WRU and the national squad are with Alun Wyn Jones and his family following the passing of his father Tim.

"Due to this, Alun Wyn will not be considered for selection this weekend."

Tim Jones played for Swansea RFC and Welsh Universities, while he worked in the legal profession for 40 years.

Swansea chairman Terry Morgan told the club's official website: "Tim and I played together from the late 60s toward the end of my playing days, and he was an ever-present personality with the All Whites' Former Players' Association from its inception in 1981, around the time he finished playing.

"He is remembered for his dry wit and sense of fun, as well as the enormous support he unassumingly gave behind the scenes to Swansea Rugby Club from his experience in the legal world.

"He had been ill for some time but never complained.

"His footprint on the club is, like his father Ken – a great supporter – and his son Alun Wyn Jones, indelible. We will miss him.

"The thoughts of all at St Helen's are with his wife Anne, son Alun Wyn and daughter Lowrie at this especially difficult time."

A minute's silence will be observed before Swansea's Principality Premiership game against Ebbw Vale on Thursday.