Thomas joins Scarlets

WALES prop Rhys Thomas will become one of the highest paid players in the Magners League after joining Llanelli Scarlets from Newport Gwent Dragons. Thomas, 26, has signed a three-year deal worth £500,000 over the next three years.

The South African-born prop, who won his seventh Wales cap against Italy this month, will link up with former national assistant coach Nigel Davies at Llanelli this summer.

Thomas said: “It was a pretty easy decision to join the Scarlets, they’re a region with a strong tradition of being successful and they have a group of talented players and coaches.”

The Dragons have wasted no time replacing the 19-stone front-row with ex-Junior All Black Ben Castle.

Castle, 29, is currently playing Super14 rugby in Australia with Perth-based Western Force.

Dragons chief executive Gethin Jenkins said: “Ben will bring a tremendous amount of experience.”