TRANSFER | Former Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw has a new club

The 34-year-old scrumhalf was one of three overseas signings announced by the Shining Arcs, along with Australian flanker Liam Gill and New Zealand-born hooker Anaru Rangi.

"I’m honoured to announce that I have signed for Top League club NTT Communications Shining Arcs in Japan," said Laidlaw.

"I was able to experience the country, the incredible people and the culture for the first time in 2016 and again during last year’s RWC. It is a country that has provided the warmest of welcomes every time I have visited. To now be making it my home and joining the Shining Arcs family is extremely exciting.

"I have played for some incredible teams during my rugby career and I’m excited to continue with NTT Communications Shining Arcs; I look forward to bringing my experience and what I have learnt with me to Japan and to experience the rugby culture and everything this fantastic country."

Laidlaw became a fan favorite in Japan after leading Scotland to a 2-0 test series win on their 2016 tour of the country.

He was on the losing side against Japan at last year's World Cup, when the hosts advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time by beating Scotland 28-21 in their last pool match.

Laidlaw retired from international rugby after the tournament as Scotland's all-time longest-serving captain and second-highest points scorer.

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Place of birth: Weston-super-Mare

Back playing rugby following his cancer recovery, centre Johnny Williams is poised to exit Newcastle Falcons to join Scarlets, according to Wales Online. The 23-year-old made an appearance with the red rose on his chest only last year, starting inside-centre for an England XV against the Barbarians. And with a father from north Wales, Williams also qualifies to pull on the red jersey – with that sole appearance at Twickenham not committing him to England as it was an uncapped match.

Place of birth: Plymouth

Born in England but raised in the South Wales Valleys, John began his playing career at Pontypridd as well as representing Wales at all Junior Levels. He also played for Cardiff Blues and was part of the squad that won the European Challenge Cup in 2010. In 2013 he moved to New Zealand and played for two seasons in the ITM Cup with the province of Northland.

WillGriff then returned to the UK and joined Doncaster in the Championship in 2014. On 3 May 2017 John was signed by Sale Sharks. Becoming a first-team regular for Sale, in the English Premiership.

After receiving a call-up during the 2020 Six Nations, the powerhouse is almost guaranteed to win his first cap when international rugby returns.

Place of birth: Bath

Born in England, Burns represented England for youth rugby union teams, before being called to represent Ireland at the 2020 Six Nations Championship.

Despite not winning a cap, the 25-year-old has been in fine form for Ulster and will likely be given his international debut when Test rugby returns.

Place of Birth: Gloucester

The scrum-half quaifies for Scotland through his Glaswegian grandafther and is currently attached to English Premiership side Gloucester's academy.

He was dual-registered Hartpury for the 2018/19 season, as well as playing A league rugby for the United.

Chapman represented Scotland in the U20s Six Nations and earned selection for the Junior World Championship in France

He was added to the Cherry & Whites first team squad for the 2019/20 season and with that his stock has continued to rise. Gregor Townsend should and probably is keeping a close eye.