Jared Payne throws in towel at Scarlets 'after much consideration'

Former Ireland and Lions full-back Jared Payne will leave the Scarlets at the end of the season as the United Rugby Championship outfit have announced a review of their coaching staff.

Payne joined the Scarlets in the summer of 2023 from French side Clermont Auvergne, as the club’s attack and backs coach, before later overseeing the defence programme.

The ex-Ulster player who started his coaching career in Belfast is a popular figure in the Scarlets dressing overseeing the development of the club’s emerging young players.

“After much consideration, I have made the decision to step down from my role at the Scarlets at the end of the season.

“My time at the club has been full of both rewarding and challenging moments that have grown me as a coach, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a proud rugby organisation.

“Working with the players, staff and supporters has been a privilege, and there have been many moments that I will always value. For now, my focus remains on supporting the players and staff and doing everything possible to help the group finish the season strongly. I want to thank everyone connected with the club for their support during my time here.

“I wish the Scarlets every success in the future and look forward to seeing the club continue to grow and achieve,” he said,

Scarlets interim director of rugby Nigel Davies has been quick to acknowledge the contribution the native New Zealander has made in West Wales.

“Jared has made a significant contribution since joining the Scarlets. He is a highly respected coach with strong technical knowledge of the game, and he has worked extremely hard with our players over the past three seasons.

“He has played an important role in helping develop a number of the players coming through our system and in driving standards within the environment.

“Jared will remain fully committed to the group for the remainder of the season, and we look forward to finishing the campaign strongly together.

“We are currently reviewing the rugby programme to ensure we are best aligned to the way we want to play, strengthen our player base and continue to support the development of our squad.

“We want to build an environment that challenges our players, supports their growth and reflects the ambition of the Scarlets as a club. We will confirm details of the coaching structure for the 2026-27 season in due course.

“On behalf of everyone at the Scarlets, I would like to thank Jared for the professionalism and expertise he has brought to the role and wish him and his family all the very best for the future,” he said.