Wales head coach Matt Sherratt is again working in an interim capacity following Warren Gatland’s departure in February.
Jones’ most recent international experience against Wales was as Australia coach during the 2023 World Cup, when Gatland’s side claimed a record 40-6 win against the Wallabies.
When asked whether he was surprised by Wales’ rapid decline since then, Jones said: “The state of rugby at the moment is if you are not continually rebuilding and you allow your team to go the nth degree, then the rebuilding period is tough.”
Jones said Wales and Japan had the two oldest squads at the 2023 World Cup, although champions South Africa had the highest average age of 30, compared to 29 for Japan and 28 for Wales.
Jones also suggested the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) needs to take responsibility to avoid a similar scenario in the future.
“I am sure there will be some learnings for the union about how to manage the situation better and we are going through the same situation here [in Japan],” he added.
“That responsibility lies with the national unions in having a more strategic approach to development and that’s really important.
“Wales also play in the Six Nations and that is the most unforgiving competition in the world, so it is a difficult period for them.”
After spending some time at Scarlets earlier this season, Jones believes Welsh rugby can flourish again.
“Having visited Scarlets this year, I saw a number of good young players coming through,” said Jones.
“I’m sure if Wales can get through this period, they’re going to have another period of success further down the track.”
