Scarlets coach eyes top-four return

Cunningham first came through the doors at Parc y Scarlets in January 2011 working as performance skills coach and helped guide the academy players through cup competitions this season.

His new role will see him work with the first team alongside head coach Wayne Pivac.

Seven clubs scored more tries than the Scarlets in last term's GUINNESS PRO12, as they finished sixth in the table, missing out on a place in the end of season play-offs for a second consecutive season.

But Cunningham is confident he can help buck that trend.

"This is a great opportunity for me to take another step on the professional coaching ladder," Cunningham told the official Scarlets website.

"This has always been something I've wanted to achieve and have been working towards over the years.

"Personally, I'm looking forward to being a part of the coaching team that will develop long term forwards for the region and to develop a pack that can give us the top-four spot.

"I've been at the region for some time now and have enjoyed seeing the progression of our young local talent from the age grades and the academy through to the senior side and on to international honours in some cases.

"In terms of what the future holds, we want to be a top-four side and to make the play-offs. I believe that we can achieve that and reach our full potential."

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