This post was originally published on this site.
The 20-year-old from Canterbury has an impressive highlight reel already
The Scarlets are closing in on the signing of Welsh-qualified full-back Isaac Murray-MacGregor from New Zealand.
Having already signed Blair Murray from Canterbury, with the 24-year-old going on to become a Wales regular in his first two seasons in Wales, the Scarlets seem to be close to unearthing another gem from the Crusaders. Murray-MacGregor is in the Scarlets’ crosshairs, with a deal believed to be close.
The 20-year-old outside back has previously played for New Zealand’s under-18 side, while he has also been a part of the Crusaders’ U20s setup.
However, this season has seen him edge closer to senior rugby – having been on the fringes of the Crusaders’ squad during pre-season.
He is understood to qualify for Wales on his mother’s side.
The full-back caught the eye in a Super Rugby Pacific Development match back in March, crossing for a hat-trick for the Crusaders against the Highlanders.
However, it was the try assist he laid on late in the match that went viral on social media – with the clip of his audacious chip over the Highlanders defence, followed by a mazy run, that really got people talking.
That wasn’t the first time he had caught the eye on social media, with his performances for Westlake Boys High in the 2023 World Schools Festival earning him rave reviews.
Wales VIP hospitality tickets from £330
Seat Unique offers VIP hospitality tickets for Wales’ autumn internationals including New Zealand and Australia
In a TikTok reel, RugbyPass dubbed Murray-MacGregor the “rugby player everyone is talking about at the World Schools Festival” as Westlake went on to win the tournament.
The post added that his “speed and acceleration stunned his opponents”, adding that he “glided” past defenders.
The Scarlets have made a habit of finding gems in recent years, with former Wales back-row James Davies working as the west Walians’ recruitment manager.
Davies was credited for spotting Wales wing Ellis Mee while he was at Nottingham, while he was described as “influential” in finding full-back Murray in New Zealand.
Most recently, they brought No. 8 Fletcher Anderson from New Zealand, with the 23-year-old almost certain to be named their player of the season after a series of standout performances.
Follow all of our channels to ensure you stay up to date with the latest Welsh rugby news. Sign up to our free daily newsletter here and our WhatsApp channel here for all the breaking news.
