The Wales and British & Irish Lions full-back has joined Wayne Pivac’s side for the defence of their league title. The West Walians lifted the trophy after showcasing all their attacking talents in a 46-22 final triumph over Munster. And Halfpenny is relishing the opportunity to sharpen his attacking skills at Parc Y Scarlets.
He said: “I only wanted to come back to Wales and the Scarlets felt like the right decision. Obviously, with the likes of Liam Williams and DTH van der Merwe leaving there was a vacancy in the back three and it just felt like the right fit.
“Watching the Scarlets play and speaking to the guys, they like to play an attacking brand of rugby, for me that is something I am not so much adding to my game because in my first season in professional rugby I felt I had it, but bringing back into my game.
“Watching how the Scarlets played last season and knowing a lot of the guys and how they play, it felt like the right choice and it is very exciting to be looking forward to going out and pulling on the Scarlets jersey and getting the season off to a good start.”
Halfpenny took his first steps into rugby at Gorseinon RFC before beginning his professional career at Cardiff Blues. A big move to RC Toulon followed, where he has spent the last three seasons. But the 71-cap pinpoint kicker reckons their could be some rivalry in the family, with his dad’s side based in Swansea.
“It is just 10 minutes down the road for me so in terms of settling it it has gone quite smoothly,” he smiled. “I am enjoying being back home and close to family and friends.
“My mother’s side of the family is from Llanelli. My auntie has been a Scarlets season ticket holder for years, I used to go with my sister and her to Stradey Park and watch games there when I was younger. My dad’s side is Swansea, so there has been a bit of banter amongst the family, but they will all be coming down here to watch.”
