Wales focused on future under Pivac as new era begins – Jones

Pivac takes charge of his first Six Nations match when Italy visit Cardiff on Saturday.

Wales' Alun Wyn Jones, left, is ready for a new era under Wayne Pivac, right

Alun Wyn Jones says Wales will not be looking back when they start Six Nations life under Wayne Pivac on Saturday.

The reigning Grand Slam champions begin a new era of their international history against Italy in Cardiff.

Warren Gatland’s success-laden reign – a 12-year stint which saw Wales win three Grand Slams and reach two World Cup semi-finals – ended earlier this season.

Warren Gatland called time on his successful stint as Wales boss last year (Simon Galloway/PA)

His fellow New Zealander Pivac is now at the helm, and although he had a trial run with a non-cap fixture against the Barbarians two months ago, the serious business is about to begin.

“Obviously, it was a long period that ‘Gats’ was here, and with the success he had,” Wales captain Jones said.

“But it’s the first one for Wayne, and I am conscious – and the group is conscious – that we are not going to look back.

“The new management is in situ, and the focus is on tomorrow and what is to come.

“Time will tell (how different it will be). We have had a few weeks together and we are all raring to get out here and see where we are.

“We had an influx of young players about 18 months to two years ago, and the experience and success is something we want to build on as a group with the new faces in the management as well.”