Retiring Saints prop Franks lands first coaching job

Franks announced his imminent retirement from playing back in February and he has now landed his first coaching role.

The 36-year-old, who won two World Cups with New Zealand, will join Glenn Delaney's management team at Parc y Scarlets.

Franks will join the Welsh side when his Saints contract ends, taking up the role of scrum coach.

The former Crusaders front row forward moved to Saints from London Irish during the summer of 2018 as the Chris Boyd revolution began.

And Franks has since gone on to make 39 appearances in the black, green and gold, with 13 of them starts, scoring two tries in the process.

He will now begin to look forward to a new chapter in his illustrious career.

And Franks said: "Coaching is something I had always planned to do when I finished playing and I was delighted when this opportunity came with the Scarlets.

“I had always known I was going to retire this season so before the coronavirus 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.

“There is a great mix of experienced internationals and youth in the squad at the Scarlets. I’m looking forward to linking up with everyone.”

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