All Black Meeuws leaves Scarlets

Kees Meeuws last played for new Zealaand in August 2004

Kees Meeuws is considering retiring from rugby after leaving the Llanelli Scarlets after just one season.

The former New Zealand international joined the Scarlets from Castres Olympique on a two-year contract last season but injury plagued his season.

He has been released from this contract 12 months early by mutual agreement after making 12 appearances last term.

"I felt it was time for a new challenge and my family are looking at an option to return to New Zealand," said Meeuws.

The 34-year-old tighthead prop won 42 caps for New Zealand between 1998 and 2004 and played for the Blues in the Super in 2004.

He said: "I haven't finally decided whether to keep playing in Europe or to take another option and retire from playing and move into coaching.

606: DEBATE Give your reaction to Kees Meeuws leaving Parc y Scarlets

"I am in great condition and still have a passion for playing so that makes the decision harder.

"I have enjoyed my time at the Scarlets and I am grateful for the warm welcome and support I have been given in Llanelli from the rugby region and its supporters.

"I have enjoyed living in Wales, we've made some lifelong friends as well as meeting many of the great Scarlets supporters. I hope the region will go from strength to strength."

Meeuws said he was disappointed to have been injured for a large part of last season after rupturing his Achilles tendon in a Magners League game against Munster last November.

But despite his injury nightmare, Scarlets coach Nigel Davies said: "Kees made a big impression with us from the start of last season and has been a great character to have at Parc y Scarlets.

"He has always been an excellent professional and a source of inspiration for the younger members of our squad who have benefited from his experience during the time he has been with us.

"We thank him for his contribution and we wish him and his family in New Zealand well and all the very best for the future."