Scarlets confirm departure of eight players including Hadleigh Parkes

Scarlets have confirmed that eight players including Wales centre Hadleigh Parkes will be leaving the club.

The decision follows after the Welsh regional club decided to resume training with the players and coaches for the 2020/21 season.

Parkes joined Scarlets in 2014 and has played 122 matches for the club since then and he will be joined by Kieron Fonotia, Corey Baldwin, Jonathan Evans, Morgan Williams, Simon Gardiner, Rhys Fawcett and Tom James, who is retiring from professional rugby.

Apart from the eight players, head coach Brad Mooar will also part ways with the club as he will be linked with Ian Foster's New Zealand coaching group. Along with Mooar, forwards coach Ioan Cunningham will also be making an exit from the club.

"It is always difficult to say farewell to players and coaches, but far more so this season because of the current circumstances," said Scarlets general manager of rugby Jon Daniels.

"We would like to thank Brad for everything he has done at the Scarlets since his arrival last summer and wish him, Anna and the children, Laura, Charlie and Sam well for their return to New Zealand.

"In a short period of time Brad has immersed himself as part of the Scarlets family and culture and his popularity among our supporters speaks volumes."