The news is out and it's music to the ears of Scarlets fans everywhere – they've landed a real gem with the signing of New Zealand Under-20 lock Tom Allen from Super Rugby Pacific champions the Hurricanes. This 21-year-old giant of a lad, standing at an impressive 6ft 6in, is the seventh summer signing for the Welsh region and he's got the passion and hunger to make his mark in the upcoming United Rugby Championship (URC) season.
Allen brings with him a wealth of rugby experience, having made 12 appearances for the New Zealand Under-20s and also featured for Auckland in the National Provincial Championship (NPC). And let's not forget his two brief but impressive cameos off the bench for the Hurricanes during their recent Super Rugby championship-winning campaign – what a way to make an entrance! When asked about his move, Allen gushed: "I'm incredibly excited about this opportunity. I've heard so many positive things about Scarlets, its supporters, and the style of rugby they play."
For Allen, Scarlets represents the perfect platform to continue growing as both a player and a person. He's relishing the chance to gain valuable new experiences in European rugby and is drawn to the club's rich history and tradition – from a New Zealand perspective, there's real pride in the jersey and passionate support that he wants to be part of.
Scarlets Director of Rugby Nigel Davies is thrilled to welcome Allen on board, praising his youth, ambition, and positive attitude. Davies notes that Allen has "hunger to improve" and a willingness to take on challenges – exactly the kind of qualities the club is looking for in its players.
The young lock joins a growing list of new faces at Parc y Scarlets, which includes fellow Kiwis Cullen Grace (back-rower from the Crusaders) and Welsh-qualified full-back Isaac Murray-Macgregor. Other notable signings include Wales loose-head prop Corey Domachowski from Cardiff, hookers John McKee and George Roberts, and Welsh-qualified lock Harvey Cuckson – who's made his loan move from Bath permanent after impressing last season.
Scarlets, who finished 14th in the URC last campaign, will kick off their new season at home against Welsh rivals Cardiff on Saturday, 26 September. It promises to be an action-packed season for the Scarlets and with Allen leading the charge, they're definitely one team to watch.
So what do you think, Scarlets fans? Are you excited about the prospect of Tom Allen joining your beloved club? Let us know in the comments below!