Scarlets have added experience and depth to their fly-half options with the arrival of Billy McBryde ahead of Friday’s United Rugby Championship clash with Benetton in Treviso.
With Sam Costelow and Joe Hawkins currently with the Wales Six Nations squad and Academy fly-half Elis Price sidelined with a foot injury, McBryde has joined the squad this week from North Wales Super Rygbi Cymru side RGC.
The 29-year-old brings significant experience to the group, both on and off the field. His arrival provides not only vital cover in a key position, but also an experienced, highly-professional presence within the playing group at an important stage of the season.
A former Wales Under-20 international who came through the Scarlets pathway, McBryde made six appearances for the club in the Anglo-Welsh Cup during the 2016 and 2017 campaigns. He returns to Parc y Scarlets having spent the last two seasons back in North Wales following four years in the English Championship with Doncaster Knights.
Scarlets’ decision to bring McBryde into the group reflects the current focus on performance. His experience, game understanding and professional standards are expected to have a positive impact across the squad, particularly in supporting and guiding younger developing players during a demanding block of fixtures.
The Gwendraeth Valley product, son of former Wales hooker and coach Robin McBryde, is well known to the club and environment, allowing him to integrate quickly and contribute immediately.
Eighteen-year-old Llandovery College student Carwyn Leggatt-Jones is set to make his third URC appearance in Treviso, continuing his development within a competitive performance environment.
Scarlets travel to northern Italy on the back of a dramatic late victory over Ulster at Parc y Scarlets on Saturday, their third win of the Championship campaign, as momentum continues to build.