Scarlets sign Scotland international Craig

Scarlets have announced the signing of Scotland international second row Alex Craig for the upcoming 2023-24 season.

The 26-year-old, originally from Dumfries, is making the move from English Premiership team Gloucester, where he progressed through the Academy ranks.

After an impressive campaign with Hartpury RFC, Craig secured a permanent deal with Gloucester in 2019 and went on to make 49 appearances for the club. His standout performances earned him a call-up to represent Scotland in the 2021 Six Nations, where he made appearances off the bench in the victories over Italy and France under the guidance of coach Gregor Townsend.

Craig has also represented Scotland in the U20s Six Nations and Junior World Championships. The addition of Alex Craig adds depth and talent to the Scarlets' roster, and the club is excited to have him on board for the upcoming season.

“Alex is a young, athletic lock, who will add international quality to our pack of forwards," said Scarlets Head Coach Dwayne Peel. "I’m looking forward to seeing him play and it's been great to welcome him to Parc y Scarlets for our first day back."

Craig said: “This is a fresh start playing in an exciting competition that is the URC. Scarlets are a big club with a proud fan base and play a real exciting brand of rugby. I’m looking forward to getting started.”

Craig becomes the fifth confirmed addition to the Scarlets ranks for the 2023-24 season. Wales international Ioan Lloyd has signed from Bristol Bears; wing Tomi Lewis is returning to Parc y Scarlets following a successful season with Jersey Reds in the English Championship, while Loughborough University title winners Teddy Leatherbarrow and Charlie Titcombe have also linked up with the squad.