The 30-year-old, who sits clear at the top of the try-scoring charts at the halfway mark of the BKT United Rugby Championship campaign, has also put pen to paper on a new deal with Glasgow Warriors, after the hooker agreed to extend his stay at Scotstoun until at least the summer of 2026.

Eligible to represent Scotland courtesy of his Glaswegian mother, Matthews was first called up to a senior Scotland representative squad in the summer of 2022, representing Scotland A in their victory over Chile.

He then made his Scotland debut in unforgettable fashion, coming off the bench against Romania at the 2023 Rugby World Cup and marking his first appearance in the dark blue shirt by finishing off a flowing team try in front of the travelling Scottish supporters in Lille.

Johnny Matthews said: “MIPF is about rugby looking after its own.

“Everyone I’ve come across in Scottish Rugby, whether at club level, with the Warriors, right through to the national team, takes player welfare and well-being very seriously.

“The Foundation is there to provide support when a player can be at a low ebb, perhaps after an injury.”

Speaking on his new deal at Scotstoun, Matthews added: “It was a very easy decision to renew, to be honest.

“It’s a great group to be a part of, both on and off the pitch, and I’m just delighted to be able to commit my future to the club.”

Ian Rankin, MIPF chair, said: “We are delighted to welcome Johnny on board as our ambassador.

“We look forward to working with him and hearing his ideas on how we can increase awareness of our work and encourage more people to support the Foundation through fund-raising.”