By Paul Jones

Scarlets have added to their squad with the signing of Welsh-qualified back Blair Murray from New Zealand provincial side Canterbury.

The 22-year-old speedster, who can operate on the wing, full-back or at fly-half, scored seven tries in seven appearances during last year’s Bunnings NPC campaign.

A sharp, elusive attacking runner, Murray is a former New Zealand Schoolboys international and has been part of the wider Crusaders Super Rugby squad.

https://twitter.com/scarlets_rugby/status/1801252772651602302

He qualifies for Wales through his mother, who is from Tonyrefail.

Murray will add to a potent group of back-three players at the Scarlets and becomes the sixth new addition to the squad for the 2024-25 campaign following the signings of Toyota Cheetahs hooker Marnus van der Merwe, Exeter prop Alec Hepburn, Nottingham full-back Ellis Mee, Australian lock Max Douglas and Wales international prop Henry Thomas from Castres Olympique.

Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel said: “Blair is an exciting prospect, a player with pace, who can beat defenders and has excellent footballing ability.

https://twitter.com/BBCScrumV/status/1801255561268179271

“He has represented New Zealand Schools and has been in and around the Crusaders squad for a couple of years now. He is also Welsh qualified.

“There is no secret that we are in the process of a rebuild and Blair is another signing who will add depth going into the new season.

“We have a lot of talented young players who have a bright future in the game and I am sure the competition we are building for the jersey will drive them all on.”

Blair Murray said: “I am excited to get the opportunity to play for the Scarlets, a great club with a fantastic heritage and passionate fan base.

“I’ve always thought being able to go to Wales would be great for me so for it to be happening and to be able to play in front of my family is a dream come true.”

Alex Craig has been in good form for the Scarlets despite results not going the way of Dwayne Peel's side.

I look back at his season and if he could gain his first Scotland cap since 2021.

Any likes & RTs would be appreciated!https://t.co/W5dLnckHmt

— Iestyn Rhys Thomas (@Iestyn_thomas21) June 13, 2024

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