Scarlets have strengthened their squad with the signing of highly-rated young No. 8 Fletcher Anderson.
The 22-year-old talent played three matches in the Crusaders’ Super Rugby Pacific title-winning season and was named Man of the Year, Player of the Year and Defender of the Year for the Tasman Makos in their 2025 NPC campaign.
As a schoolboy, Fletcher captained his college first XV and was named in the 2020 NZ Schools team.
He came through the Crusaders Academy and U20s side and made his debut for the Crusaders last year.
Standing at 6ft 2in and 109kg, Fletcher has been outstanding for Tasman this season, showcasing his powerful carrying, high work-rate, and aggressive defensive game. Rugby Pass recently named him among one of the most promising under-23 prospects in New Zealand rugby.
Lauding the player at their annual awards, the Makos said: “A young and promising talent, Fletcher has already shown composure beyond his years, combining relentless work rate with a true passion for the jersey. His impact on and off the field has been immense.”
Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel said: “Fletcher is a hugely talented young New Zealand forward who has had an outstanding season for Tasman in the NPC and has already represented the Crusaders in Super Rugby. He is a powerful, abrasive carrier with a strong workrate in defence.
“We are excited about what he can offer us and look forward to welcoming him to Llanelli ahead of a massive block of fixtures for us in the URC and Champions Cup.”
Fletcher will link up with the squad in November.
He said: “I would like to thank Dwayne for the opportunity to join the Scarlets.
“I have heard very good things from other players in the squad about the direction the team is heading and I’m really excited to get to Llanelli and meet everyone.
“Last season for the Scarlets was a step in the right direction making the play-offs and I’m looking forward to hopefully playing a part in helping the team push on further this season.”