Scarlets sign New Zealand U20 lock Allen

Scarlets sign New Zealand U20 lock AllenImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Tom Allen is a product of the renowned Hastings Boys' High School rugby programmePublished2 minutes agoScarlets have signed New Zealand lock Tom Allen from Super Rugby Pacific champions the Hurricanes.The 21-year-old made 12 appearances for New Zealand Under-20s before playing in the National Provincial Championship with Auckland.He featured twice off the bench in the past season as Hurricanes won their first Super Rugby championship trophy in 10 years, and says joining Scarlets is an opportunity he is "incredibly excited about"."I've heard so many positive things about the club, the supporters and the style of rugby played at Parc y Scarlets," said Allen."It feels like the perfect place to continue developing as both a player and a person as well as gaining valuable new experiences in rugby."The 6ft 6in (1.98m) lock added: "Growing up in New Zealand, you understand the history, values and tradition of clubs like the Scarlets. "There's a real pride in the jersey, passionate support and that's something I recognise and respect and want to be part of."Scarlets sign WRU deal but peace is temporaryPublished2 days agoScarlets sign New Zealand forward GracePublished26 JuneAllen is the seventh summer signing for Scarlets who have also recruited New Zealand back-rower Cullen Grace from Super Rugby side Crusaders and 20-year-old Welsh-qualified full-back Isaac Murray-Macgregor from the Canterbury and Crusaders pathway.Scarlets director of rugby Nigel Davies believes latest recruit Allen is another exciting prospect."He's young, ambitious, positive and comes through one of the best player development systems in world rugby," said Davies."What really impressed us throughout the recruitment process was his hunger to improve. "He embraces challenge, wants to learn and is excited by the opportunity to test himse...