Former Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones has joined the Ospreys' board of directors with immediate effect, the club announced on Friday afternoon. The 40-year-old will no longer provide punditry or analysis on matches involving the region.
Return at a critical time
The former lock, who made over 250 appearances and won three Celtic League and Pro 12 titles with the Ospreys during his playing career, returns at a crucial time for the region as it fights for its continued existence. The Ospreys are pitted against the Scarlets in a direct battle for survival under Welsh Rugby Union plans to cut the number of professional teams from four to three.
Jones, who was born and raised in Swansea, has been appointed to strengthen the board with the experience he gained during his playing career and in his life outside rugby. Further details of his responsibilities are set to be confirmed in due course.
Club statement and Jones's response
"Ospreys Rugby Limited today announced the appointment of Alun Wyn Jones to its Board of Directors, with immediate effect," a club statement read. "The appointment reflects a deliberate step by the Board to strengthen its capability at a critical time for the region, as the Ospreys continue to develop both on and off the field and navigate the wider challenges facing professional rugby in Wales."
Jones, a five-time Six Nations winner, said: "For me, this is about bringing together my experience from rugby, business and life after playing, to help drive long-term growth and stability for the organisation."
"I know the game, I know the city and I know the region. I played for Swansea RFC and came through the Ospreys and national academy. I understand both the history here and the greater potential that exists," he added. "I have remained in contact with some staff and members of the Board. I have an understanding of the challenges facing rugby in Wales and the Ospreys."
Board reaction and media protocol
James Davies-Yandle, CEO of Ospreys owners Y11, said the appointment "makes a strong board stronger", with Jones "earning the seat through preparation". He added: "We were not looking for a figurehead. We were looking for a director who understands this club from the inside, and who can also stand up in a boardroom, hold his own and have a view on the detail."
Jones, who has appeared as a pundit on the BBC's rugby coverage since retiring, has agreed a protocol around his media commitments. Board director Roger Blyth said: "Alun Wyn has agreed a straightforward protocol around his continuing media commitments, including that he will not provide punditry or analysis on Ospreys matches. The arrangement gives clarity around his responsibilities while allowing him to continue his wider media work."
