Meeuws gets that Scarlet look
Sun, 18 May 2008 22:29
Llanelli Scarlets have pulled off a major coup by capturing the signature of All Black strongman Kees Meeuws.
Currently with Castres Olympique in the French Top 14 league, the 33-year-tighthead prop has signed a two-year contract with the region.
Scarlets chief executive Stuart Gallacher said: "We have been monitoring Kees's performances this season in the French Championship and have been very impressed.
"We have been hugely impressed by Kees. His physical condition is terrific and he proved to us he still has the motivation to play at the top level in European rugby. Along with Simon Maling and David Lyons he will bring extra physicality and power to our squad and he will be arriving with us here in Llanelli in late June."
The All Black said he was "impressed by the ambitions of the Scarlets" during a series of meetings.
"The Scarlets have the best Welsh record in Europe and having seen the new stadium and all its fantastic on-site training facilities I have no doubt that I have made the right decision in joining the Scarlets.
"I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and quickly realised what a wonderful area Llanelli is and I am sure my family and I will enjoy our time here.
"I feel I have a lot to offer and look forward immensely to the challenge of helping the Scarlets gain further success in the Heineken Cup and the Magners League."
Regional head coach Nigel Davies added: "Kees's record and pedigree as an All Black coupled with his desire to achieve further success makes him a great signing for the Scarlets. He is a proven leader whose experience will be vital next season.
Meeuws made 45 appearances for New Zealand (42 at Test level) between 1998-2004, uniquely scoring 10 tries in the process.
