Scarlets have to be part of Wales' future - Peel

DWAYNE Peel says he can't envisage a world without the Scarlets and insists they must be a part of Welsh rugby's future.

- STEFFAN THOMAS

The future of the Scarlets is in doubt with the Welsh Rugby Union favouring a cut from four to two professional clubs, although that could change upon the conclusion of the formal consultation process.

There has been first-class rugby in Llanelli since 1872, while the club has produced some of Welsh rugby's greatest players, from Phil Bennett to Scott Quinnell.

Peel has been associated with the Scarlets since he was a child, both as a player and now, as head coach.

There have been suggestions the WRU could scrap the existing four professional clubs - Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets - along with historic brands in favour of two brand new entities, but Peel (pictured) doubts whether this would appeal to players and coaches.

"I can't imagine Welsh rugby without it (Scarlets), to be honest, because I feel that strongly that it's been a pivotal club and an entity in our country, so that's my position on it," he said.

"There's obviously consultations going forward but I think we, the Scarlets, need to be part of that future.