Scarlets release Chris Apoua after achilles injury

Scarlets have released summer signing Chris Apoua after the 34-year-old tight-head prop ruptured his Achilles in training, ruling him out of the entire 2026-27 season.

Chris Apoua leaves Scarlets after injury

Apoua joined Scarlets from Moana Pasifika in August but suffered the serious injury shortly after linking up with Nigel Davies’ squad.

The former Northland and Southland prop will now return to New Zealand to continue his recovery, leaving Scarlets assessing their options at tight-head ahead of the new United Rugby Championship campaign.

Australian Archer Holz and Wales internationals Henry Thomas and Harri O’Connor remain among the senior options, with Wales U20 forwards Jac Pritchard and Yestyn Cook also available.

Taine Plumtree targets October Scarlets return

The 26-year-old is expected back in October, while centre Johnny Williams is also targeting a return that month following shoulder surgery.

Fly-half Carwyn Leggatt-Jones is recovering from a quad injury and is similarly scheduled to return in October. Elis Price, however, is likely to miss the entire campaign after undergoing ACL surgery.

Gareth Anscombe starts against Exeter Chiefs

Scarlets begin their pre-season programme against Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park with six potential debutants included in a 30-man squad.

Summer signing Gareth Anscombe starts at fly-half alongside scrum-half Dane Blacker, while John McKee and Harvey Cuckson are also handed starting opportunities.

George Roberts and Isaac Murray-Macgregor are among the replacements, with 17-year-old fly-half Madoc Evans and experienced Wales scrum-half Gareth Davies also included.

Captain Josh Macleod leads the side as Scarlets begin preparations for their URC opener against Cardiff on September 26.