Former Welsh first minister Carwyn Jones is to join Scarlets’ board during a season in which their long-term future is under threat.

Jones served as Wales’ top politician between 2009 and 2018 and has since become a peer with the title Lord Jones of Penybont.

Born in Swansea, Jones attended Aberystwyth University, where he played rugby, before serving as a member of the Senedd for Bridgend for more than 20 years.

Under Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) plans, Scarlets and Swansea-based Ospreys are rivals to remain as one of a three-team professional tier in Wales beyond 2028.

Jones said: “I believe Welsh rugby needs four professional teams. The proposal to leave west Wales with one licence puts two clubs with proud histories and important contributions in an impossible position.

“The west must stand together to secure the future of both of its teams.”

The WRU has outlined how it plans to cut from four men’s professional teams to three by 2028, with one side in the capital, one in the east and one in the west.

That leaves Ospreys and Scarlets locked in a battle to be the sole west Wales team.

Jones added: “The challenges facing Welsh rugby are real and they call for clear thinking, sound evidence, transparency and practical solutions.

“I look forward to help secure a strong future for the Scarlets and for Welsh rugby.

“This great club has a huge role to play in the future of our game in Wales.”

Scarlets already have Labour MP for Gower Tonia Antoniazzi on their board that also includes rugby legends Sean Fitzpatrick and Derek Quinnell.

Scarlets executive chairman Simon Muderack said: “Carwyn is one of the most respected figures in Welsh public life.

“He brings the judgement of a former first minister, a deep understanding of Wales and its communities, and a genuine passion for rugby which will be invaluable to our Scarlets board.”