Kiwi 'revelation' Fletcher Anderson to stay in Wales

Scarlets have confirmed that No. 8 Fletcher Anderson has signed a new contract with the region, committing his future to the West Wales outfit.

The 23-year-old back-row forward has made a rapid impression since arriving from New Zealand in November and has established himself as one of the standout performers in the URC this season.

Although he’s not qualifed to play for Wales, the 6’2, 109kg back-row would become eligbible if he stays put with the Welsh system until 2030.

Anderson has also featured prominently in all four of Scarlets’ Investec Champions Cup matches.

A powerful ball-carrier and high-volume defender, Anderson currently ranks joint third in the URC for carries made. He tops the league charts for defenders beaten and sits inside the top ten for both gain-line carries and tackles completed.

His form has been recognised internally, with Anderson handed the captaincy for recent fixtures against Connacht and Leinster. He has also won three successive supporters’ player-of-the-month awards.

Scarlets interim director of rugby Nigel Davies said the re-signing was significant for both the player and the wider direction of the club.

“This is a hugely important signing for us not just because of the player Fletcher is, but because of what it represents.

“From the moment he arrived, he has driven standards. He is physical, he is competitive and, importantly, he has the mentality and leadership qualities that define the environment we are building here.

“He is exactly the type of player we want at the heart of this squad going forward – someone who is brave in how he plays, connected to the group and absolutely ruthless in his desire to improve and win.

“There has been strong interest in Fletcher, so for him to commit his future to Scarlets speaks volumes about the belief in what we are creating. We are building something here that is aligned, ambitious and capable of competing at the highest level in the future.

“This is another step forward for us. We are not standing still, we are building a team and an environment that can deliver sustained success, and Fletcher will be a key part of that journey.”

A New Zealand Schools international, Anderson progressed through the Crusaders Academy and made his Super Rugby Pacific debut in 2025. He enjoyed a standout NPC campaign with Tasman Mako last year, earning Player of the Year, Defender of the Year and Man of the Year honours.

Speaking about his decision to extend his stay, Anderson said: “I’m really excited about the future with the Scarlets, what we’re building here and what we can achieve. From the word go, I’ve felt backed by the coaches and connected to the group of players.

“There’s a real sense of direction and belief and that made the decision an easy one for me.

“I have loved just getting the chance to play the game I love week in, week out – that has been awesome.

“We’re a young squad with a huge amount of potential, and I want to be part of helping drive this team forward and getting Scarlets back to where it belongs.

“Playing in places like Bordeaux and Northampton in sold-out stadiums was a fantastic experience, winning at the Arms Park as well, but beating Ulster out here in front of our own fans in the manner that we did with that late try was a real highlight that sticks out for me.”

He added: “The support here has been incredible. Scarlets are extremely proud and passionate, they care deeply about the club and that gives you real motivation every time you pull on the shirt.

“You want to represent that properly – and that’s a big part of why I’m excited for what’s ahead.”