Scarlets can compete with Europe's best - Hala'ufia

The Tongan No.8 has joined the region after six seasons with London Irish and is one of six new signings as head coach Simon Easterby looks to improve on last season's sixth-place finish.

Scarlets will begin their campaign at home to Ulster on the first weekend in September, a side they will also face in the new European Rugby Champions Cup having been drawn alongside Toulon and Leicester Tigers.

And after settling in to life across the Severn, Hala'ufia can't wait for the challenges that are to come this season.

"I want to get myself into the best shape I can and then be ready for the new season," Hala'ufia told the club's website.

"It's an exciting time with the new European tournament and the fact that all the big dogs are there in the group with us. Bring it on.

"There's no doubt I have joined a strong squad. The boys are working hard and I think we can compete with those top teams in Europe.

"The Scarlets seem a great bunch of boys. We're having a good laugh and we're looking forward to the new season."

Among the competition Hala'ufia will face for the No.8 shirt is fellow new signing Rory Pitman who has joined from Wasps.

The 24-year-old has previous GUINNESS PRO 12 experience having played for the Ospreys and Glasgow Warriors and Hala'ufia believes the Welshman has all the ingredients to become a star player for the Scarlets.

"I've been really impressed with him. He's got everything you need and he could become one of the best," Hala'ufia said.

"He's got the build, the strength, the power - everything. If he keeps doing what he's doing then he will do really well. I would love to see him do well."

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