Wales skipper Jones was among the high-profile absentees from a 37-man Lions squad announced by head coach Ian McGeechan three weeks ago.

Barely a year ago, Jones was being touted as a possible Lions captain after guiding Wales to their second RBS 6 Nations title and Grand Slam in four seasons.

But Canada (May 30) and the USA (June 6) - not South Africa - now beckon for Jones, who takes charge of a Wales squad currently containing 11 uncapped players.

“I would like to thank my family, friends and fiancee, who have been superb the last few weeks,” said Jones.

“I want it (Lions tour) to be about the boys who are going on that tour.

“I’ve got some great friends going, and I want it to be positive for them and an experience they will treasure. I wish them all the very best.

“You deal with those disappointments and you move on, simple as that. It’s gone now.”

Lions tours traditionally produce a high casualty count, and this trip - which culminates in three Tests against the world champion Springboks - promises to be no different.

Jones was summoned by Sir Clive Woodward to New Zealand in 2005 as an injury call-up, and he proved one of a dismal tour’s few success stories.

“The big concern is if you weren’t on this (Wales) tour, you would go and sit on a beach somewhere with a couple of beers, have a bit too much to eat, and then if the call did come you wouldn’t be in a fit state to go anyway,” added Jones.

“For everyone who is in and around the frame, it is important they stay fit, keen and healthy, and if the call does come you go and enjoy it.

“I am looking forward to going to Canada and America and playing. Captaining the squad is a role I thoroughly enjoy.”