Lyons, 27, has played 43 Tests for Australia and represented the Wallabies at two Rugby World Cups. He became only the third player in Waratahs history to pass the magical 100 mark following in the footsteps of Chris Whitaker and Matthew Burke; 94 of which have been at Super Rugby level and is now back to full fitness after breaking his ankle playing for the Wallabies against Canada at the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
“I met with David and his representatives in Sydney last week in what was an extremely productive meeting,” said Scarlets CEO Stuart Gallacher. “David outlined his reasons on why he wanted to play in Europe, and with a change of lifestyle and new surroundings, we are confident David will flourish with the Scarlets.”
Lyons’s international career began in 2000, the same year he made his state and Super Rugby debuts. For a seven year period commencing in February 2000 he did not miss a match for the Waratahs in the Super 12/14 competition, an unbroken run of 83 games.
Lyons also achieved national recognition before playing a game of first grade rugby. He was born on June 15th 1980 in Orange, NSW, and grew up in the nearby town of Molong. Educated at Hurlstone Agricultural High School in Sydney’s south west, he captained the touring Australian schoolboys of 1997-1998. He was also a representative of Sydney University at club level.
As a result of Lyons capture, the Scarlets have secured a six-figure compensation fee with CA Brive Rugby for the early termination of Popham’s contract to allow him to take up an offer with the French club.
“I would like to thank Alix for his commitment and efforts on behalf of the Scarlets and would like to wish Alix good luck in his new career,” added Gallacher.
Alix Popham said: “I’ve had a great three years at Stradey Park and really enjoyed my playing career with the Scarlets, but this is a great opportunity for me and my family to experience a new culture and lifestyle. I would like to thank the fans who have been great to me and my family.”
Popham played 62 games for the Scarlets since making his debut against an Army Selection in August 2005 and has been capped 33 times by Wales.
