‘Immense’ New Zealand and Crusaders forward heads to struggling URC outfit
Fletcher Anderson will join Scarlets in November.
Scarlets have announced the signing of number eight Fletcher Anderson, who will join the United Rugby Championship (URC) side from Super Rugby outfit the Crusaders.
The highly-rated 22-year-old played in three matches for the Crusaders in their recent title-winning season as the New Zealanders bounced back from a disappointing 2024.
He went on to be named Man of the Year, Player of the Year and Defender of the Year for Tasman Makos in their 2025 National Provincial Championship (NPC) campaign.
Promising talent
As a schoolboy, Anderson captained his college first XV and was named in the 2020 New Zealand 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, Anderson has been outstanding for Tasman this season, showcasing his powerful carrying, high work-rate, and aggressive defensive game.
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.”
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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 work-rate 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.”
Anderson will link up with the squad in November and is looking forward to turning out for the Welsh region.
Excited to join
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.”
