Head coach Wayne Pivac has spoken about his excitement at pitting his high-flying Scarlets side against Europe’s finest in this season’s European Rugby Challenge Cup, he has said in an interview.
The West Walian region have made a perfect start to their Pro12 season, sitting top of the table with six wins out of six.
And they will be looking to bring that form into the Champions Cup – a competition that has so often seemed to bring out the best in the Scarlets.
But standing between them and a first knockout stage appearance since 2007 is a group featuring Pro12 champions Glasgow Warriors, Premiership heavyweights Northampton Saints and the big-spending Racing Metro – who have added All Black fly-half Dan Carter to their ranks.
And Pivac cannot wait to face the newly crowned World Player of the Year when the two sides meet at Parc y Scarlets in round two.
“We looked at last year’s pool and called it pool of death but they’re all strong pools,” said Pivac.
“This season is going to be another big challenge for us.
“Racing have some big names to add to the mix.
“I think it’s fantastic to have players like Dan Carter in the competition.
“It’s fantastic for players to come up against the best players in the world but it’s also great for fans to see these plays in their own back yard potentially.”
But before Pivac can welcome Carter to Llanelli, there is the small matter of a reunion with a former Scarlet.
The first match for the region will be a trip to Franklin’s Garden to face George North and his Northampton side.
The British Lion started his career in Llanelli before making the decision to cross the border.
He did return to Wales briefly last season in a green and black jersey, tormenting the Ospreys as he racked up five tries in the two pool stage matches between the team.
And Pivac will be aware of the threat posed by North as he prepares his side for the competition.
“We look forward to the challenges ahead and it’s going to be a great occasion,” he said.
“Northampton are going to have a big pack no matter who they put out.
“We look forward to that challenge and a big effort will be required by the boys.
“They’re all strong sides, not forgetting that Glasgow are the reigning champions in the Pro12.”
