Scarlets have confirmed the departure of their Rugby Performance Director Leigh Jones, with club legend Nigel Davies stepping in as interim.

Jones joined the Scarlets in July 2024, ahead of the 2024-25 season, having previously coach in international rugby with both Japan, Wales and Hong Kong and in the English Premiership with Leicester Tigers.

Jones oversaw key elements of the rugby performance programme during his time in Llanelli, working closely with head coach Dwayne Peel on areas including player development structures, performance systems, analysis and medical and high-performance pathways across the senior and academy environments.

In recent weeks, the Scarlets Board has completed a strategic review of the club’s rugby operations and has decided to undergo a restructuring of the rugby department to support the senior coaching team and sharpen the senior performance environment and on-field performance.

In light of the changes, Jones’s role will not be retained in the new structure.

Scarlets Executive Chairman Simon Muderack said: “We thank Leigh for his professionalism and commitment to our rugby environment over the past 18 months.

“He has made a valuable contribution to our club and everyone associated with Scarlets would like to thank Leigh for his contribution to the club and wish him, and his family the best for the future.”

Leigh Jones added: “I have enjoyed my time at Parc y Scarlets and working with the Scarlets team during a very dynamic and challenging time for Welsh Rugby.

“I would like to express my thanks to the players, coaches and staff for their support and friendship over the past 18 months. I wish this great club and its players well for the seasons ahead.”

With Jones’ departure confirmed, Scarlets moved quicking to announce the appointment of club legend Nigel Davies as interim Director of Rugby.

Davies will oversee the Scarlets rugby department reporting directly to the Scarlets Board with overall accountability for rugby performance, results and selection providing leadership, structure and alignment across the senior rugby programme.

Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel will continue to lead daily coaching, match preparation and technical delivery, working closely with Davies within an aligned performance framework.

During more than 10 years coaching Scarlets over two spells, Davies led the club to major achievements including a Celtic League title in 2003-4, two European semi-finals and four European quarter-finals. As a player, Davies played 498 games for Scarlets, scoring over 100 tries from the centre position.

He also won 29 caps for Wales in the 1980s and 1990s, winning the Five Nations in 1994.

“This is about bringing clarity, alignment and stability to the rugby programme,” Nigel Davies said of his appointment.

“I will take full accountability for performance and results, set clear standards for how we play and behave and ensure the environment supports players and coaches to perform.

“My focus is on simplifying messages, reinforcing Scarlets identity and values and creating the conditions for improved results, both in the short term and beyond.

“Scarlets have always had a strong and proud rugby identity, with a rich rugby heritage and deep-seated values and traditions.

“The club is embedded in the culture of communities across West Wales. This club has always thrived on delivering big results against the odds which excite our fans and inspire future generations of players in the game.

“The hard work continues with a talented squad of players and I am looking forward to lending my support and drive to the group for the remainder of this season.”

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