Kees Meeuws left New Zealand for France in 2004

Llanelli Scarlets have signed ex-New Zealand tight-head prop Kees Meeuws on a two-year deal from Castres Olympique.

"I was impressed by the ambitions of the Scarlets," said the 33-year-old. "I feel I have a lot to offer and look forward immensely to the challenges."

Meeuws won 42 All Blacks caps between 1998 and 2004, scoring 10 tries.

The Scarlets had targeted Meeuws's fellow Kiwi prop Greg Somerville, but announced last week that the proposed deal had fallen through.

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"We have been hugely impressed by Kees. His physical condition is terrific and he proved to us he still has the motivation to play at the top level in European rugby.

"Along with Simon Maling and David Lyons he will bring extra physicality and power to our squad and he will be arriving with us in Llanelli in late June."

He moved to Castres in 2004, left for Agen for the 2006/7 season, then returned to Castres last season.

"Kees's record and pedigree as an All Black coupled with his desire to achieve further success makes him a great signing for the Scarlets," said new coach Nigel Davies.

"He is a proven leader whose experience will be vital next season."