Steve Cummins returns to Scarlets on loan

Scarlets have secured the short-term services of Dragons lock Steve Cummins as they manage an injury crisis in their second row.

The 33-year-old Australian, who previously played for the Scarlets between 2017 and 2020, has rejoined the club on loan and is named among the replacements for Friday’s United Rugby Championship (URC) clash with the Stormers.

Cummins made 46 appearances in his first spell with the Llanelli-based side, helping them reach the Pro14 final and Champions Cup semi-finals in 2018.

He later moved to French side Pau before signing a two-year deal with Dragons in 2024. However, injuries restricted him to just six appearances last season, and he has not featured since March.

Scarlets’ second-row options have been severely depleted with Sam Lousi, Jac Price, and Will Evans sidelined, while Wales international Jake Ball suffered a head injury in training this week.

Cummins provides much-needed experience as the Scarlets prepare for a difficult run, which includes fixtures in South Africa against the Lions and Sharks after the Stormers game.