Blade signs new Scarlets contract

Rob LloydNews

Blade Thomson has signed a new contract to stay at Parc y Scarlets.

The versatile back-rower, capped 10 times by Scotland, arrived in Llanelli from Super Rugby side the Hurricanes in 2018.

He has made 31 appearances, earning himself an international call-up to Gregor Townsend’s Scotland squad. 

Blade appeared for the Scots at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan and has delivered some impressive displays in a Scarlets jersey this season.

“It is fantastic that Blade has signed a new deal with the Scarlets,” said head coach Glenn Delaney.

“Blade is a real athlete, a player who can produce game-changing moments as he showed in our derby win over the Ospreys over Christmas.

“He has proven himself at international level, is a player who has a lot of experience in Super Rugby and has grown into an important and influential member of our squad.”

Commenting on the new deal, Blade, 30, said: “I am delighted to have signed a new contract with the Scarlets.

“Ever since myself and my family have arrived here, we have been made to feel welcome by everyone at the Scarlets, team-mates, staff and supporters.

“It has been a tough season for a number of reasons, but there is a huge amount of quality in the squad – experienced internationals and talented young players who have stepped up and made their mark.

“I am excited by what this group can produce in the coming years.”

Blade becomes the latest international to have re-signed for the Scarlets, following Wyn Jones, Aaron Shingler and Ryan Elias. 

Highly-rated youngsters Carwyn Tuipulotu and Morgan Jones have also agreed new deals, along with prop Javan Sebastian.

Further renewals will be announced in the coming weeks.