Joe Hawkins is relishing his competitive return to Welsh rugby on Saturday – starting with “one of the top sides” in URC and European rugby.
The five-times capped utility back returned across the bridge from Exeter in the summer and has loved being back on home soil.
“It’s nice to be back,” says the 23-year-old.
“I wanted to fulfil my potential. What I had gained ability-wise from Exeter, I probably couldn’t have been pushed on anymore, really.
“The way the Scarlets play rugby suits the way I like to play. I felt like joining them was the next step on my journey of being the best player I can be – to really try and drive that side of my game.
“Obviously, the potential of maybe playing for Wales again is a big thing as well. The two years I had in Exeter, it did make me realise how much I do love playing for Wales and how much I relish playing international rugby.”
The Scarlets made the URC play-offs last season, so what are Hawkins’ hopes for his new club?
“We definitely don’t want to stand still. It’s not a case of ‘Well done, you finished eighth, let’s just try and do that again’.
“We want to improve on last season. We want to try and push on and finish top six.”
Looking at opening opponents Munster, he added: “They have always been one of the top sides in the URC and Europe.
“It’s a tough start, but it’s something you want because come the end of that first game, we will certainly know where we are at as a team and where we are at in the league. So it’s really exciting.”
The former Wales U20s skipper is equally at home at centre and fly-half, so where does he see his positional future lying?
“As I am getting older and a bit more mature, I feel myself leaning more towards playing at 10,” he replies.
“With what my strengths are, I want the ball in my hands a bit more. I want that responsibility of running the team and making decisions for the team.”