The Scarlets have confirmed the signing of Wales international Joe Hawkins from Exeter Chiefs. WalesOnline exclusively revealed the Scarlets were the frontrunners for Hawkins' signature and the west Walians have now confirmed his signing. Hawkins has won five senior caps for Wales but was controversially prevented from representing his country due to the 25-cap law after leaving the Ospreys for Exeter Chiefs in 2023. Able to slot in at fly-half or centre, the versatile playmaker has been seen as one of the brightest young talents to come through the Welsh system in recent years and will replace the Cardiff-bound Ioan Lloyd at the Scarlets. The 22-year-old joined the Chiefs from the Ospreys in 2023 and has featured 33 times for Rob Baxter’s side, playing his part in the win over Ealing Trailfinders last weekend which booked the club a place in the Premiership Cup final. “Joe is a player of big potential and we are delighted to bring him home and to the Scarlets," said Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel. "I’m very much looking forward to welcoming him to Parc y Scarlets and seeing him flourish in the Scarlets shirt. “He is a player who has the ability to play in a number of positions and is further proof that we are building a young, exciting team that wants to compete. From my numerous conversations with Joe it is clear that he is a dedicated individual with a winning mentality." Hawkins has played the majority of his career to date at centre but is likely to see plenty of action at outside-half at the Scarlets where he will compete with Wales international Sam Costelow for the number 10 shirt. “I’m really looking forward to being back home In Wales with the Scarlets and doing my best to add to an already exciting young squad," said Hawkins. “Having watched the team and speaking with Dwayne, the attractive brand of rugby they play is something I want to be a part of and plays to my strengths. I’m excited to get started at Parc y Scarlets, play in front of the passionate supporters and push on in my career.”