Jones describes his role as "just being in the background really". But don't be fooled, he has been a key figure in analysing last year's matches and helping to formulate what the club hopes will be a winning strategy.
"Last year we were really just seeing how things went. This year we have put a bit of time and effort into it. There is always going to be pressure on this team to perform but we've also got to remember to embrace it and enjoy it."
While winning would be nice, the event was a huge boost for the sport and the city, he said.
"After the way the Nines went last year there is a lot of interest and excitement around it. It is a massive opportunity for the game of rugby league."
Current Warriors star Sam Tomkins, who hails from the league-mad town of Wigan in Lancashire, said the feeling in Auckland was similar to his hometown on the eve of a big match.
"There are so many people in the city that are passionate about rugby league that it is only right that it all kicks off here.
"Wigan is a lot smaller than Auckland but you get people with the same passion and drive to be part of a rugby league club.
"For the city it is brilliant that all this is happening."
Meanwhile, dual code international Wendell Sailor believes the NRL Nines should stay in Auckland.
Sailor, who played 21 league tests for the Kangaroos and 37 union matches for the Wallabies, says NRL officials should resist calls for the tournament to be relocated to Australia.
"I understand how hard it is to tap into the New Zealand market," Sailor said. "I know a lot of people are saying they should move the Nines and give Queensland and New South Wales a go, but we have got the All Stars game [in Australia].
"It is nice way to kick off the season having the Nines here [in Auckland]. Kiwis get to see some of the big stars of the game and some of their favourite players like Kieran Foran, Daly Cherry-Evans and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck. And they get to see the young stars coming through."
Warrior Shaun Johnson was a hot favourite at the NRL 9's signing session yesterday. Photo / Nick Reed.
Nines in a nutshell
The rules
Are the rules different from normal NRL matches?
Yes and no. The game is largely the same but there are a few tweaks. The main changes are:
• Nine players a side with five unlimited interchange players.
• Two nine-minute halves with a two minute half time period.
• Five tackles in a set.
• Scrums will only form after a double knock on.
• No video referee.
• Five points for a try scored in the bonus zone under the posts, with two point drop kick conversion attempts.
• 25 second shot clock to complete conversions.
Kickoff
Eden Park noon today.
Weather
Both days should be warm (up to 26C) but not necessarily sunny with a little drizzle possible. Take the sunblock just in case.
Travel
Use public transport. Train and special event bus travel included with game tickets, which can be shown on a mobile device.
Special event buses will run to Eden Park from Northern Busway stations, Takapuna, Manukau, Pakuranga, Botany, Newmarket, Mt Eden and the central city.
Travel on special trains starts from 3 hours before kick-off.
Click here for travel details
