Gareth Anscombe returns to Wales 'excited' by Scarlets' vision

Scarlets have signed 35-year-old former Wales international Gareth Anscombe to provide competition for Sam Costelow at No.10 and mentor young fly-halves, Wales U20 talent Carwyn Leggatt-Jones and Elis Price.

The 42-cap Grand Slam winner, who was born in New Zealand, arrives in West Wales after a season in the Top 14 playing for Bayonne. His previous clubs include Gloucester Rugby, Cardiff and Ospreys, having played Super Rugby for the Blues and Chiefs.

Scarlets Director of Rugby Nigel Davies is delighted to have brought in someone with so much experience.

“Every recruitment decision starts with one simple question – does this make us better? And we believe Gareth unquestionably does,” he said.

“Occupying such an influential position on the field, his ability to control games, make good decisions under pressure and lead a team in the game is invaluable. Gareth has consistently demonstrated those qualities throughout his club and international career.

“He’s coming here hungry to compete. He’s joining Scarlets to challenge for the jersey and because he believes he can make a real contribution to this team – and that’s exactly the type of mentality we want within our environment.

“One of the most valuable things experienced players bring is the ability to transfer knowledge,” he added.

“Gareth has succeeded at the highest level of the game. He understands how to prepare, how to lead, how to manage pressure and how to win important matches.”

“Having someone of Gareth’s calibre working alongside Sam, Carwyn, Elis and the rest of our squad every day will accelerate learning and raise standards throughout the programme. Those conversations on the training field, in meetings and around the environment are incredibly powerful.”

Anscombe says the opportunity to join the Scarlets was one he immediately wanted to pursue.

“I’m genuinely excited to be joining the Scarlets at what I believe is an exciting time for the club,” he said.

“I have watched the recruitment and strengthening of the squad over recent months with interest and there’s a lot of ambition here at Parc y Scarlets and a great environment to work within.

“I still have a huge desire to compete and to contribute on the field and help the team win matches.

“Competition brings the best out of players and that’s exactly what I want. Sam is an outstanding player, Elis and Carwyn are both very bright young 10s for the Scarlets now and in the future and I’m looking forward to working alongside them. My goal is to help push standards, share some of my experience and continue challenging myself.

“From speaking with the Scarlets coaching group, I was really impressed by the energy and focus here and where this club wants to go. There is a clear vision, there’s an exciting group of players and I wanted to be part of that journey.”

Anscombe joined his new team-mates for his first training session at Parc y Scarlets on Tuesday ahead of the start of the URC season at the end of September.