WALES’ head analyst when they won the Grand Slam in 2005 – Alun Carter – has joined his old club Pontypool in an advisory capacity.

A former back rower who won two caps for Wales in 1991 Five Nations championship, he recently left his job as team manager for Aviva Premiership side Worcester Warriors after five years in the role.

He was the WRU’s head analyst between 1998 and 2007 and wrote a well-received book which gave an insider’s view of what it was like working for national coaches Graham Henry, Steve Hansen, Mike Ruddock and Gareth Jenkins.

Carter, who also played for Newport, will work with Pooler in terms of “performance and analysis”.

He said: “It will be a privilege to work alongside Mike Hook (Pontypool’s head coach), his coaches and team. It is a real opportunity to work in a positive environment and, from meeting the coaches and the players, there is a real energy and commitment to Pontypool RFC in every aspect.”

Hook said: “We are delighted to welcome Alun to Pontypool RFC. His experience of the game will be a huge asset to us and we all look forward to integrating his views and interpretations into our overall set-up.”

Meanwhile, Pooler and backs coach Matthew Chapman have parted company.

A statement on their website reads: “Arrangements are presently being made to introduce a new member of the coaching team to fulfil this role, and the club will make a further announcement on this matter in due course.

“Everybody at Pontypool RFC would like to thank Matthew for his services to the club and the club wishes him well in his future endeavours.”