Jones will miss the World Cup warm-up Tests against Argentina and France in Cardiff later this month after suffering a partial tear to a groin tendon.

But surgery will not be required, a scenario that would have effectively ended his World Cup hopes.

Wales coach Gareth Jenkins has already lost Lions Gavin Henson and Ryan Jones from the tournament due to injury.

Jenkins said: 'This is magnificent news for us.

'Stephen is very much the lifeblood of this squad. He is a key leader and vital to us, not just because of his rugby experience and what he offers on the pitch, but because of the impact he makes on the squad throughout our time together.'

And Wales team physiotherapist Mark Davies added: 'Stephen could have torn the tendon completely and that would have required surgery, but this news means there will be no need to go down that road.

'He has a partial tear to the tendon in his left groin area which, following a period of treatment and rest, will progress and allow him to get back to full training by the end of August.

'He should be back to his best by the end of the month.'