Taine Plumtree Returns for Scarlets in Challenge Cup Opener Against Newcastle

Taine Plumtree, a back-row forward for Wales, is ready to make his first appearance of the season for Scarlets in their Challenge Cup match against Newcastle Red Bulls in Llanelli.

The 26-year-old, who underwent shoulder surgery during the summer, has been named as a substitute for the match scheduled for Saturday at 20:00 BST. Alongside Plumtree, fit-again Fletcher Anderson and scrum-half Gareth Davies will also start their first games of the season, contributing to seven changes in the starting lineup following a recent victory against Benetton.

Scarlets' director of rugby, Nigel Davies, has also included centres Joe Roberts and Johnny Williams, hooker John McKee, tight-head prop Harri O'Connor, and lock Harvey Cuckson in the lineup. Plumtree's return comes after he missed the beginning of the 2026-27 season due to surgery. Meanwhile, Newcastle, who are struggling with three consecutive losses in the Premiership, will debut wing Brandon Jackson and Argentina prop Francisco Moreno in this match.