Scarlets sign Welsh-qualifed NZ rookie Isaac Murray Macgregor

Scarlets have signed Welsh-qualified full-back Isaac Murray-Macgregor from the Canterbury and Crusaders pathway.

The 20-year-old has progressed through one of New Zealand’s leading development systems, featuring at age-grade, provincial and Super Rugby development level.

He started at full-back for New Zealand Schools against Australia U18 in 2023 and was part of the Westlake Boys High School side that won the World Schools Festival the same year. More recently, the 6’2, 95kg back has represented Canterbury B and was named in the Crusaders U20 squad for the 2025 Super Rugby U20 tournament.

He’s also been exposed in a Crusaders pre-season squad.

Murray-Macgregor qualifies for Wales through his Llanelli-born mother and is a cousin of Scarlets centre Joe Roberts. He will link up with the squad ahead of pre-season.

Interim director of rugby Nigel Davies said: “Isaac is a player we are genuinely excited about.

“This is not just a signing based on potential; it is a signing based on the quality of environment he has come through, the level of rugby exposure he has already had and the characteristics we believe he can bring to Scarlets now and in the future.

“He has grown up in a Canterbury and Crusaders system that is known throughout the game for developing smart, skilful and highly-competitive players. That background matters because players from those environments are used to high standards, detail and accountability from a young age.”

Davies insist the signing aligns with Scarlets’ recruitment strategy.

“Isaac is athletic, brave, competitive and comfortable playing with the ball in space. He has good backfield instincts, strong aerial qualities and a willingness to involve himself in the game.

“He gives us another exciting option in the backfield and brings a different rugby experience into the group.

“What also stood out was his attitude. He wants to improve, he wants to challenge himself and he sees Scarlets as the right environment to take the next step in his career.”

Murray-Macgregor said: “I’m really excited to be joining Scarlets.

“My mum is from Llanelli, so the West Wales connection makes this move really special for me and my family.

“I know I have a lot of hard work ahead, but I’m looking forward to getting started, joining up the squad, learning from the coaches and a group of senior players and doing everything I can to contribute.”