Scarlets Flanker Taine Plumtree Set for URC Comeback After Injury Layoff
Scarlets flanker Taine Plumtree will make his return to the pitch on Saturday after a five-month injury absence when his side takes on Edinburgh in the United Rugby Championship (URC).
The Wales international has recovered from a shoulder injury suffered in November against the Lions, which required surgical intervention. Plumtree, who joined Scarlets from the Auckland-based Blues Super Rugby team, will be joined in the starting lineup by fellow internationals Johnny Williams, Sam Costelow, Gareth Davies and Kemsley Mathias.
Hooker Ryan Elias will captain the Scarlets side, which is looking to bounce back from a heavy 45-3 defeat against Glasgow in their previous URC outing. Plumtree has made an immediate impact since arriving in Wales, scoring four tries in his first five matches for the club.
The 23-year-old was born in Swansea while his father John was coaching the All Whites, and he announced his return to Wales last June. Plumtree promptly linked up with Warren Gatland’s Wales squad and featured in two warm-up internationals, as well as the win against the Barbarians.
Edinburgh, who have lost just once at home in the league over the past 12 months, will be a tough test for the visiting Scarlets, who are yet to win an away game in the URC this season. Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel is hoping his side can find the necessary momentum and fight to secure a positive result at the Hive Stadium.
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