In a shock announcement that caught the league media by surprise, Jones announced his signing at a press conference at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland this morning.
Warriors coach Ivan Cleary refused to confirm whether Jones would be the Warriors' starting halfback at the beginning of the 2009 NRL season but said he was delighted he had convinced 32-year-old Jones to pull on his boots again next season.
Jones said he never officially retired but opted out of the final year of a deal with UK Super league club the Catalan Dragons.
He was not available for any other team last season as he was originally contracted to the Dragons.
"It's a huge decision but I'm so excited about what's ahead," said Jones.
"I've really enjoyed the time I've had back at the Warriors (as kicking coach) this year.
"I've had a year off playing after finishing up with Les Catalans (in the English Super League) and turning out for the All Golds in England last year."
Jones said contractual arrangements had prevented him giving any consideration to a playing deal before now.
"The truth is I had originally signed a new contract to play on with Les Catalans this year but it was a bit rushed. By then we'd had two great years in Perpignan and we were homesick and really keen to come back," he said.
"The club was good about it and let me go but on the condition I couldn't play for any other club in 2008."
Jones decision to return to the playing field will be hotly debated with critics sure to question whether he still has the form left in his veteran legs to recreate his old magic and inspire the Warriors to greater heights next year.
Jones will be competing against current Junior Kiwi halfback Liam Foran, signed in the off-season from the Melbourne Storm, gun Warriors under 20s star Issac John and Kiwis test utility Nathan Fein for the Warriors' No. 7 jersey.
His commitment to play in the New Zealand Rugby League's farewell match to long-time Kiwi team-mate Ruben Wiki on October 12 compelled Jones to take on a training programme.
"After training to play for the All Golds in New Plymouth and playing in that game, I realised how much I had missed being out there," he said.
Jones' cameo appearance for the All Golds was the catalyst for Cleary to make his approach.
http://www.leaguehq.com.au/news/news/st ... 88885.html
Nice one Stacey
you must be right