The Scarlets have announced the signing of Chris Apoua, a former tight-head prop for Moana Pasifika, as they bolster their squad ahead of the new season. Apoua, who has a wealth of experience in New Zealand rugby, joins the west Wales region after spending the last four seasons with Moana Pasifika, a Super Rugby franchise that disbanded earlier this year.
Born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Apoua, 34, has made a significant impact in the rugby scene, accumulating 85 senior appearances across various levels, including the National Provincial Championship (NPC) and Super Rugby. His journey in rugby also includes stints with provincial teams Northland and Southland, where he honed his skills and developed a reputation for his physical playing style.
Expressing his enthusiasm for joining the Scarlets, Apoua stated, "I hope my experience will add something more to Scarlets and help the team be successful. There’s plenty of energy and ambition around Parc y Scarlets, and I’m looking forward to the new season and making a mark." His determination to contribute positively to the team reflects the ambitions of the Scarlets as they aim for success in the upcoming competitions.
The addition of Apoua is part of a broader strategy by the Scarlets to enhance their squad depth, having already signed several key players including fly-half Gareth Anscombe and prop Corey Domachowski. Other new faces include second-row players Harvey Cuckson, Alex Groves, and Tom Allen, as well as hookers John McKee and George Roberts, and full-back Isaac Murray-Macgregor. The team is also welcoming All Black Cullen Grace to their ranks, indicating a strong recruitment drive.
However, the Scarlets have also seen notable departures this summer, with players such as Marnus van der Merwe, Alec Hepburn, Tom Rogers, Jake Ball, Max Douglas, and Jarrod Taylor leaving the club. These changes highlight a period of transition for the team as they look to build a competitive squad for the future.
Nigel Davies, the Scarlets' director of rugby, emphasized the importance of Apoua's signing, stating, "Chris gives us something we’ve been clear we need within the squad with power and physicality at tight-head. He brings experience from a different and demanding rugby environment that we believe will benefit the wider group."
Davies further elaborated on the club's recruitment philosophy, underscoring the need for overseas signings to have a clear rugby purpose, which he believes will strengthen the collective group. He expressed confidence that Apoua will significantly enhance the environment for the Welsh players, making his addition a strategic move for the Scarlets as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
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