Scarlets sign Wales fly-half Anscombe from Bayonne
Wales fly-half Gareth Anscombe has returned home to sign for Scarlets ahead of the 2026-27 season, moving from French Top 14 side Bayonne. The 35-year-old, who can also cover full-back, is intended to provide competition for Wales playmaker Sam Costelow, whose absence through injury last season left the region relying on makeshift options at number 10.
Anscombe, capped 42 times by Wales, previously played for Cardiff and Ospreys before spells at Gloucester and Bayonne, where injury restricted him to just five Top 14 appearances. The length of his Scarlets deal has not been disclosed. Scarlets finished 14th in the United Rugby Championship last season and have also added forwards Corey Domachowski, Cullen Grace, Harvey Cuckson, Alex Groves and Tom Allen, along with hookers John McKee and George Roberts, and full-back Isaac Murray-Macgregor.
- Gareth Anscombe joins Scarlets from Bayonne for 2026-27 season
- Signing adds competition for Wales 10 Sam Costelow
- Scarlets also bolster squad with several forwards and a hooker
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Gareth Anscombe is a Wales rugby international who has signed for Welsh region Scarlets after two seasons at French club Bayonne. The 35-year-old is a fly-half, the position responsible for directing a team's play, and has won 42 international caps during his career.
Scarlets had a difficult season last year, finishing 14th in their league, with their main fly-half Sam Costelow out for much of the campaign due to injury. Anscombe's arrival is intended to provide experienced competition and cover at this key position while Costelow returns to full fitness.
Anscombe has built a long career playing for major clubs across Britain and France, including Cardiff, Ospreys, Gloucester and Bayonne. His move back to Welsh rugby comes after injury limited his appearances during his time in the French Top 14.