Tonga international Sione Timani has agreed a two-year deal to move to the Scarlets.
Tonga lock adds physicality to Scarlets pack
Tonga international Sione Timani has agreed a two-year deal to move to the Scarlets.
The 26-year-old lock had been playing for Carmarthen Quins in the Premiership, with his form earning him the chance to train with the Scarlets during pre-season.
Timani, whose brother Sitaleki plays for the Waratahs, has now been rewarded with a deal with the RaboDirect Pro12 side.
"Sione brings physicality and a real presence to our second row options and bulk which you need in the pack to complement what we have in our group already," said Scarlets head coach Nigel Davies.
Confident
"He's a great acquisition for us in terms of the balance of our pack, he's got a lot to bring, adding a different dimensions to our forwards - with plenty scope to develop more from being within our set-up. We're confident that he will strengthen further as player once within our system.
"He's also shown he's very committed and loyal player and puts in the graft on the pitch and that he's looking to score tries as well. We are delighted he has joined us and look forward to his contribution to the group next season."
Timani, a contender for Tonga's World Cup squad, is relishing the chance to prove himself at the Scarlets.
"This is a great opportunity for me to play for such a respected and well-known club and I hope to fit in well with the group and the players," he said.
"The Scarlets are a fresh side full of ambition and quite obviously have a philosophy to give the younger developing players a chance, which appeals a lot to me. They play some great rugby and I'm looking forward to being part of the team."