Scarlets Secure Irish Hooker John McKee to Replace Van der Merwe

Scarlets Secure Irish Hooker John McKee to Replace Van der Merwe

Scarlets have officially signed Irish hooker John McKee as they look to fill the gap left by departing South Africa international Marnus van der Merwe. McKee, 26, joins the Welsh club after being behind Dan Sheehan and Ronan Kelleher in the pecking order at Leinster. The new recruit will face competition from Wales hooker Ryan Elias in the upcoming season, especially with van der Merwe transferring to Munster. McKee expressed enthusiasm about the move, stating, "This is a fresh slate for me, I have loved my time with Leinster but like every rugby player, you want to be playing regularly. I'm buzzing about the move. The opportunity to join the Scarlets was one that excited me straight away." A former Ireland Under-20s international, McKee hails from Belfast and progressed through the Ulster age-grade pathway before making his way to Leinster. Scarlets interim director of rugby Nigel Davies praised the signing, saying, "John is a player who fits exactly the type of profile we want in this squad. He comes from an outstanding environment at Leinster where standards are exceptionally high and we believe that experience will be hugely valuable for us."

Source: BBC Sport - 2026-05-14