Quinnell lands Llanelli coaching role

Scott Quinnell, the former Llanelli, Wales and British Lions No 8, is returning to Stradey Park next season as a coach. He has been offered a two-year contract as part of the regional coaching team, where he will be given the chance to develop his skills on the other side of the touchline.

Gareth Jenkins, the Scarlets director of rugby, said: "Scott has a terrific pedigree and I'm delighted he has chosen to become a professional coach - we need people like him ploughing their experience back into the game. I'm confident he can become a successful regional coach but obviously he needs to gain experience.

"The role we've assigned to Scotty will develop his coaching skills and that role will evolve in time."

Quinnell said: "Having played professional rugby for 11 years, I felt I needed to take time out to decide what to do after my playing days ended. I've enjoyed my year but to be honest have missed the involvement. I am now committed to becoming a coach.

"I know I've got a lot to learn but there's no better place to learn it than with the Scarlets and from someone of Gareth's stature. I'm so pleased to be back, especially at such an exciting time for the region."

Elsewhere, Northampton welcome back their acting captain Bruce Reihana for their sell-out Premiership match with Gloucester at Franklin's Gardens.

The influential New Zealander missed Saints' 30-3 defeat at London Irish two weeks ago when he flew home to be with his family following the death of his brother.

The Saints are still not completely clear of the threat of relegation, and the return of Reihana should provide the boost they need against an inexperienced Gloucester side.