Rugby Transfers: Gareth Anscombe returns to Wales, ex-junior All Black heads to Japan and Springbok tipped for exit
Gareth Anscombe (right) and Herschel Jantjies (left) feature in the latest round up of rugby transfers
Gareth Anscombe has returned to Wales ahead of the upcoming URC season, ex-junior All Black Tamati Tua has secured a move to Japan following his release from Exeter Chiefs and Herschel Jantjies could be set to leave France.
Here are all the latest rugby rumours, transfers and contract renewals.
Gareth Anscombe makes URC switch
Wales international Gareth Anscombe will represent his third Welsh region next season, after signing for URC outfit Scarlets.
Anscombe, who returns to Wales for the first time since leaving the Ospreys in 2023, makes the move from Top 14 outfit Bayonne, where he made six appearances.
The New Zealand-native boasts a strong rugby CV, having also represented the Chiefs, Cardiff and Gloucester at club level alongside a tally of 42 Test caps for Wales. During his stint with the national side, he helped Wales win the 2019 Six Nations Grand Slam.
Commenting on his move to Parc y Scarlets, Anscombe said: “I’m genuinely excited to be joining the Scarlets at what I believe is an exciting time for the club. I have watched the recruitment and strengthening of the squad over recent months with interest, and there’s a lot of ambition here at Parc y Scarlets and a great environment to work within.
“I still have a huge desire to compete and to contribute on the field and help the team win matches.
“Competition brings the best out of players and that’s exactly what I want. Sam is an outstanding player, Elis and Carwyn are both very bright young 10s for the Scarlets now and in the future and I’m looking forward to working alongside them. My goal is to help push standards, share some of my experience and continue challenging myself.
“From speaking with the Scarlets coaching group, I was really impressed by the energy and focus here and where this club wants to go. There is a clear vision, there’s an exciting group of players and I wanted to be part of that journey.”
Scarlets director of rugby, Nigel Davies, added: “Every recruitment decision starts with one simple question – does this make us better? And we believe Gareth unquestionably does.
“Occupying such an influential position on the field, his ability to control games, make good decisions under pressure and lead a team in the game is invaluable. Gareth has consistently demonstrated those qualities throughout his club and international career.
“He’s coming here hungry to compete. He’s joining Scarlets to challenge for the jersey and because he believes he can make a real contribution to this team – and that’s exactly the type of mentality we want within our environment.”
“One of the most valuable things experienced players bring is the ability to transfer knowledge. Gareth has succeeded at the highest level of the game. He understands how to prepare, how to lead, how to manage pressure and how to win important matches.”
“Having someone of Gareth’s calibre working alongside Sam, Carwyn, Elis and the rest of our squad every day will accelerate learning and raise standards throughout the programme. Those conversations on the training field, in meetings and around the environment are incredibly powerful.”
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He also joins the likes of Corey Domachowski, Harvey Cuckson, Alex Groves, Tom Allen, John McKee, George Roberts, Isaac Murray-Macgregor and Cullen Grace in moving to Llanelli next season.
Tamati Tua makes Japanese move
Former Blues, Brumbies and junior All Blacks man Tamati Tua has made the move to Japan League One outfit Black Rams, following his exit from PREM side Exeter Chiefs.
The centre made 19 appearances during his time at Sandy Park, scoring two tries, but missed the 2025/26 season through a ruptured Achilles.
Commenting on his move to Black Rams, he said: “I’m incredibly grateful and excited to be joining RICOH BlackRamsTokyo and would like to thank the club for giving me this opportunity.
“Playing in Japan has always been something I’ve wanted to experience, and I’m excited to begin this new challenge. I am looking forward to embracing a new culture, learning from those around me and contributing to the team.
“I can’t wait to represent the club with pride and to run out in the RICOH colours. I look forward to meeting everyone at the club and the supporters soon.
“I am truly grateful and delighted to be able to join Ricoh Black Rams Tokyo. I would like to thank the club for giving me this opportunity.
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“Playing in Japan is something I’ve always wanted to experience, and I’m excited to start this new challenge. I’m looking forward to experiencing a new culture, learning from the people around me, and contributing to the team.
“I can’t wait for the day when I can proudly represent the club and take to the pitch wearing the Ricoh uniform. I look forward to meeting everyone at the club and the supporters soon.”
Herschel Jantjies linked with Top 14 exit
Springboks World Cup winner Herschel Jantjies could be set to leave Top 14 side Bayonne, according to reports.
The scrum-half, who made his Test return during the Nations Championship, joined the French club ahead of the 2025/26 season, and made 20 appearances in his maiden campaign.
However, reports from France suggest Bayonne director of rugby Laurent Travers is willing to let him leave after just one season, with the club eyeing up a move for Nice man Guillaume Rouet.
On top of that, RugbyPass reports that Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus is keen to see Jantjies back at one of the South African URC sides sooner rather than later, but no obvious landing spot has become clear.
Jantjies spent the bulk of his career with the Stormers, notching 98 appearances for the Cape Town outfit in the process. He also briefly played for the Scarlets, making one appearance on loan.
