Wales scrum-half Knoyle to join Gloucester

GLOUCESTER, United Kingdom (AFP) –

Wales scrum-half Tavis Knoyle listens to the national anthems during the 2011 Rugby World Cup match against South Africa in Wellington, on September 11, 2011. Knoyle is to join Gloucester from Scarlets on a two-year deal, the English Premiership side have said.

Wales international scrum-half Tavis Knoyle is to join Gloucester from Scarlets on a two-year deal, the English Premiership side said Thursday.

The 22-year-old was part of the Wales squad at the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand and has played nine times for his country since making his debut in 2010, also in New Zealand.

He joins the growing ranks of Welsh exiles heading to English and French clubs, where the financial rewards on offer are often more appealing.

Gloucester coach Nigel Davis had previously worked with Knoyle at Scarlets.

“He is a very talented scrum-half and a real competitor. He will add something else to our squad,” said Davis.

“At 22, he is also still a very young player, despite his considerable experience.”

Knoyle will provide competition for current number nines Jimmy Cowan and Dan Robson.

He will also join the Wales touring party to Japan next month.

Fellow Welsh international winger George North will also leave Scarlets for the Premiership next season where he will join Northampton.

Cardiff Blues centre Jamie Roberts and Dragons centre Dan Lydiate will play for Paris-based Racing Metro next season.

France is full of Welsh internationals with the likes of Mike Phillips at Bayonne, James Hook playing for Perpignan and Lee Byrne turning out for Clermont, amongst others.