GWENT rugby hero Kingsley Jones tips Wales to beat Australia this autumn but believes an historic victory over New Zealand is a bridge too far.

Wales haven’t beaten the All Blacks since 1953 and the former national captain thinks they will come up short again on November 24.

But the ex-Abertillery, Cross Keys and Ebbw Vale player regards the Wallabies as “there for the taking” and is forecasting wins over strong opponents Argentina and Samoa.

Jones, who won ten caps between 1996 and 1998, thinks Wales will win three out of four despite struggling without Adam Jones, the tighthead prop out of the autumn internationals with a recurring knee problem.

“I think it’s going to be a real tough job with Adam down and it will be a tough autumn,” the Russia head coach said.

“A lot of young players don’t get a chance until someone is injured, but losing Adam is a massive blow.”

On Wales’ chances of beating big boys New Zealand and Australia, Jones said: “I think the southern hemisphere sides always seem to be one step ahead of the north, whether with the laws or the way the game is being played.

“It’s just a case of us being able to stay ahead, or at least keep up with them.

“Wales have been there or thereabouts a lot now, but it has been a while now since we did beat Australia. We can do it.

“Whether we can beat New Zealand? You would have to say no at the moment – certainly with your head – because they are such a great side.

“But the other teams, I really think they are there for the taking.

“Australia are at sixes and sevens at the moment. They are a little bit inconsistent. The coach (Robbie Deans) – who is a good coach – always seems under pressure.

“I think we can beat Australia this year but it’s New Zealand everybody wants to beat.”