Wales legend Alun Wyn Jones is making a shock rugby return

, Jones is set to as the region fights for its future amid controversial plans to reduce the number of professional teams in Wales from four to three.

The former Wales and British & Irish Lions captain is poised to rejoin the Ospreys, where he made more than 250 appearances, in a major new off-field role.

Jones retired from international rugby in 2023 before playing his final matches later that year.

Since hanging up his boots, the legendary lock has largely stepped away from the professional game, but is now reportedly ready to play an active role in the future of his former club.

The report claims Jones will be contracted for two days a week and “wants to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the organisation”.

His appointment comes at a critical time.

The Ospreys and Scarlets are effectively fighting for survival after the Welsh Rugby Union gave Cardiff and the Dragons first refusal on two of the three available professional licences.

Neither side has shown any appetite for a merger, with both making their case to continue as standalone professional teams.

Jones won three Celtic League/Pro12 titles during his remarkable Ospreys career and would now return with the club facing arguably its biggest battle yet.

The WRU insists Welsh rugby cannot afford to maintain four professional teams beyond 2028.

A decision on which teams remain is expected by March, meaning Jones could immediately find himself at the heart of the fight for the Ospreys' future.