Scarlets have added two second rows to their squad for their upcoming BKT United Rugby Championship matches in South Africa – signed on short-term loans.
Bath’s Harvey Cuckson and Alex Groves of the DHL Stormers (pictured) are part of the squad currently preparing for the round four and five games against the Emirates Lions and Hollywoodbets Sharks.
Welsh-qualified Harvey, who grew up in North Wales, joined the Bath Academy in 2022 after coming through the Worcester Warriors pathway. He has played international rugby for England U18s and U20s and was part of England’s squad for the U20s World Championships in South Africa two years ago. The 21-year-old made his Bath senior debut in their Prem Cup win over Exeter last month and has featured in the opening two rounds of the English Championship for Worcester.
A former England U20s Grand Slam winner, 6ft 9in Alex has had spells with Bristol Bears and Sale Sharks, featuring for the Sharks in the Premiership Cup and for Caldy in the English Championship. Born in South Africa, the 24-year-old joined the Stormers ahead of this season and was a regular with Western Province during their recent Currie Cup campaign.
Jake Ball and Sam Lousi have travelled to South Africa with the squad, but the Scarlets will be without Max Douglas, who suffered a rib injury against the Stormers on Friday night, while Steve Cummins has returned to the Dragons. Jac Price and Academy second row Will Evans are currently sidelined by injury.
Harvey Cuckson
Age: 21
Position: Second Row
Club: Bath
Height: 201cm / 6ft 6in
Weight: 120kg /18 st 12lb
Alex Groves
Age: 24
Position: Second Row
Club: DHL Stormers
Height: 207cm / 6ft 9in
Weight:120kg / 18st 12lb