Jamie Roberts: Former Wales centre among new WRU board members

Roberts played 94 times for his country, toured twice with the Lions and won two Grand Slams and three Six Nations Championship with Wales, all while studying medicine at Cardiff University and, later, gaining further degrees from both Loughborough and Cambridge Universities.

“As a recently retired international player I have an immense passion for Welsh rugby,” said Roberts, 36.

“It is a huge honour to take on a position of responsibility and influence during such an important period for the game in Wales.

“My experiences across the world have provided me with a varied and valuable insight into high performance from a player’s perspective.

“I relish the opportunity to harness my experience and knowledge on and off the playing field to contribute further to the WRU and a sport that has shaped my life.”

Bennett, a decorated former player with Saracens women, was Wales’ first women’s fly-half in the inaugural 1987 side and is a veteran of two World Cups. She later became head coach between 1998 and 2000.

Bennett is also a former teacher and worked for UK Sport for a decade. She has since established FairPlay Enterprises Ltd, advising on governance, leadership and EDI for the Premier League and all four home Unions.

“I am as passionate now as I was when I started my playing career about the growth and success of rugby in Wales, especially women’s rugby,” said Bennett.

“I aim to use my governance, leadership and inclusion expertise as well as my knowledge and experience as a board director in this role.