Ben Franks will take on a new role as Scrum Coach for Scarlets ahead of the 2020/21 campaign, following his retirement from professional rugby.
Northampton Saints announced the prop would be hanging up his boots back in February, with the 36-year-old making 39 appearances in Black, Green and Gold since his arrival at Franklin’s Gardens in 2018.
Franks – Saint #1989 – also won two Rugby World Cups and earned just shy of 50 caps for New Zealand in his playing career, and will now turn his hand to coaching with the Welsh PRO14 region.
“Coaching is something I had always planned to do when I finished playing, and this is a great opportunity for me.”
Ben Franks
He was also a member of the Crusaders squad that claimed Super Rugby titles in 2006 and 2008, and was coached by Scarlets’ new Head Coach Glenn Delaney during his time at London Irish.
“Coaching is something I had always planned to do when I finished playing, and I was delighted when this opportunity came,” said Franks.
“I had always known I was going to retire this season, so before the coronavirus pandemic I had planned on taking some time off, doing some travelling and upskilling. Glenn then got in touch and it’s an opportunity I’m excited to be taking.
“I have learned a lot from previous coaches and from playing over here for the last four or five years, and I’m excited to be working alongside Glenn and the other coaches, who I’m sure will push me and help me develop as a coach.
“I am proud to be a Saint and very grateful to have had the opportunity to finish my playing days here in Northampton.
“I’ve really enjoyed having the chance to run out again with my brother, Owen, and I’ll be following the Club’s progress in the coming years as he continues to play on in Northampton.”
