The 27-year-old has signed a three year deal at the Liberty Stadium after a stellar 11-year career at the Guinness PRO12 champions. Williams, who earnt his 50th Wales cap in last weekend’s defeat to the All Blacks, will link up with Steve Tandy’s men after the Scarlets’ bid to retain their league title.
Grand slam winner Williams has made 124 appearances for the West Walians, scoring 21 tries,and is aiming to leave his home region on a high before making the short trip East.
He said: “I hope it goes without saying that this has not been an easy decision for me, but ultimately, I feel it is a move that is the right option for me at this time in my career. I’ve loved every minute of my 11 years at the Scarlets. I will always be grateful to the board, Wayne and his team, and all associated with the club, for their support over those years.
“I’m now looking forward to a fresh challenge at the Ospreys. I’m excited about the their mid and long-term plans and goals, and my role there as a senior player. I hope it will allow me to continue improving and developing, both as a player and as a person, which is a great motivator for me.
“Once this weekend and the international period are complete, I’ll be back at the Scarlets determined to positively contribute to achieving our goals for this season.”
Williams played major role in Wales’ Six Nations Grand Slam triumph in 2012, scoring an unforgettable try to seal the title at Twickenham. He made another four appearances in 2013 as Rob Howley’s Wales retained the trophy, and has since played a key role for his country, as well as helping the Scarlets to their famous Guinness PRO12 championship last season.
“Scott is a quality player who has consistently delivered at the highest level of the game and would be a welcome addition to any squad,” said Ospreys head coach Steve Tandy. “He’s someone we’ve admired for some time, a leader who has captained Wales and the Scarlets, and he’s the kind of signing that excites supporters.
“For us to secure his signature in the face of real competition is a significant statement of intent about what we are trying to do at the Ospreys and our ambition to ensure we can continue to compete at the top end.
“Everybody at the Ospreys is delighted to get this over the line and we are excited about what Scott will bring to the environment next season, on and off the field, as he starts a new chapter in his career with his best years still ahead of him.”
