Flanker Easterby ended his Ireland career last season

Simon Easterby will continue as Scarlets skipper in 2008/9, with Stephen Jones named as vice-captain.

"Simon and Stephen both have great experience and leadership skills on and off the park which they'll now develop even further," said coach Nigel Davies.

"I think it'll be great for both of them - they have complete respect from all the Scarlets players.

"The whole squad will do whatever it takes to achieve success for Simon and Stephen on the field."

606: DEBATE Are these the right appointments by the Scarlets?

"I'm delighted to be captain once again - the Scarlets have an outstanding heritage and we're working hard to ensure a fabulous future," he said.

"With the new stadium starting to look incredible, these are exciting times at the Scarlets."

Lions and Wales outside-half Stephen Jones, who takes the vice-captaincy from Sale-bound Dwayne Peel, added: "I'm thrilled to be given the vice-captaincy - it's a real honour and a task I'll take very seriously.

"We've made some superb signings this summer, Parc y Scarlets is going to be brilliant and we're eager to give Scarlets supporters a lot to shout about."

The Scarlets are due to move to their new �23m Parc y Scarlets complex in November, ending almost 130 years at Stradey Park.