Mark Taylor has 52 caps and a Lions tour to his name

The 34-year-old will be joined at the Liberty Stadium next season by Neath centre Jonathan Spratt, 21.

Spratt has signed until May 2010, as has Wales prop Duncan Jones who has extended his current deal until then.

Ospreys coach Lyn Jones said: "Mark is a hugely experienced player and younger individuals like Jonathan and Andrew Bishop will benefit from his presence."

Taylor was part of the Sale squad that became Guinness Premiership champions last season but was out of contract with the English club this summer.

He left Welsh rugby two seasons ago when he moved to Edgeley Park from the Llanelli Scarlets after falling out of favour at Stradey Park.

Duncan Jones is an Osprey through and through and it is unthinkable that he would play regional rugby anywhere else Ospreys coach Lyn Jones

The former Pontypool and Swansea man won the majority of his 52 Wales caps while at the All Whites.

Taylor was last capped against New Zealand in November 2005 and was a Lions tourist to Australia in 2001.

"Mark is a consummate professional and will bring us solidity at centre during a World Cup year," Jones added.

"You need a blend of youth and experience in any squad and it's about getting the balance right.

"When you sign more mature players it's about ensuring they still have the ability on the field, but also that they bring the right kind of influence to the squad and Mark Taylor firmly fits the bill on both counts."

Jones was also delighted to retain the services of prop Duncan Jones.

"Duncan has been a key part of everything that has been good about the Ospreys since day one," Jones said.

"He has developed into a senior international and has many more years of top-flight rugby in front of him.

"He would have been a valuable acquisition for any team, but Duncan is an Osprey through and through and it is unthinkable that he would play regional rugby anywhere else."