Scarlets agree permanent deal with loanee Cuckson

Scarlets have signed lock Harvey Cuckson on a permanent deal from Bath after two loan spells with the club.

The 22-year-old, who grew up in north Wales, made five United Rugby Championship (URC) appearances for the Llanelli side this season.

The 6ft 7ins forward made an impression after joining during a second-row injury crisis last October.

Interim director of rugby Nigel Davies said: "He came in at short notice ahead of a challenging tour in South Africa. He showed a level of composure and physicality that stood out straight away.

"He embraced everything we asked of him, strong at the set-piece, worked hard defensively and, importantly, showed a real appetite to learn and improve."

Cuckson is Scarlets' second confirmed summer arrival after the signing of Wales loose-head prop Corey Domachowski from Cardiff.

"Bringing in and developing players who have a connection to Welsh rugby is important to us," added Davies.

"Harvey is a young player with genuine potential and, just as importantly, the mindset to grow within our environment."

Cuckson faced Lions, Sharks, Glasgow, Dragons and Ulster in the URC, while he has also played for Bath in the Premiership Cup and Worcester in the Championship this season.

"To be a part of the Scarlets and to play my rugby in Wales is a huge opportunity for me," the Welsh-qualified former England Under-20s international said.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge of the URC and getting stuck in with the squad in pre-season."

Scarlets are one from bottom of the URC and take on Ospreys in Bridgend on Saturday before finishing at home to Dragons.