The 28-year-old was a surprise selection for the opening two RBS 6 Nations fixtures against Ireland and France as Wales boss Rob Howley attempted to solve a second-row injury crisis.

Coombs has more than justified his place in the Welsh side since, topping the tackle count after the opening two rounds, with Howley preferring the Dragon to Lions lock Jones for the visit to the Azzurri.

And Coombs is in no hurry to relinquish his second row jersey for the remainder of the Championships, knowing a third successive impressive showing is needed in Italy this weekend.  

“There were a lot of options so this week more than any other I’m really chuffed,” said Coombs.

“There’s a lot of pressure on me this week and thankfully they have put the trust in me to go back out there and hopefully put another performance in.

“Alun Wyn is a fantastic player who I have always enjoyed watching and his work rate is phenomenal.

“He is a class act, has won 67 caps, been a British Lion so has been there and done it.

“You always have players breathing down your neck whatever the squad and that pressure is part of the job.

“Alun Wyn is back and the coaches will probably want to get him back on the field to see what sort of form he is in.”