Jones returned to Glasgow in 2022, coinciding with the appointment of Franco Smith as head coach.
Already in the building was Sione Tuipulotu, a midfield partner seemingly tailor-made to complement Jones’ skills.
Affectionately dubbed ‘Huwipulotu’ by Warriors fans, they have become arguably Scotland’s greatest centre pairing of the professional era and were instrumental in Glasgow’s URC title win last season.
Since returning to Scotstoun, Jones has become a more rounded player, adding defensive solidity to his dazzling attacking skills.
“When you’re younger and you first burst on to the scene, you can get away with just being supremely talented,” said Pete Horne, who played alongside Jones for club and country and now coaches his former team-mate as part of Gregor Townsend’s backroom staff.
“At at the top level, all the little details matter more than anything. And I think that’s something with Huw, the penny’s dropped with him. Defensively he’s come on leaps and bounds. He’s one of our best defenders.
“Another area that often goes unnoticed is the breakdown area, especially the way that Scotland play. We’re constantly moving the ball into wide channels and Huw has improved that no end.
“He is incredible at running lines. His timing and his change of pace on to the ball is amazing. Not only does that create him so many line breaks but it also creates so much for us out the back of him because defenders have to respect him.”
