THE Scarlets have confirmed that Hadleigh Parkes is leaving – with a move to Japan set to end his Test career.

The 32-year-old, who has won 29 caps since making his debut against South Africa in 2017, is poised to sign for Panasonic Wild Knights.

Parkes has impressed since heading to Llanelli in 2014 with his exploits earning international honours.

The strong-running centre has been a firm fixture in the national team’s midfield but will no longer be able to play for Wayne Pivac’s side as he doesn’t have the 60 caps needed by those playing outside of Wales.

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The Scarlets have also confirmed that former Dragons scrum-half Jonathan Evans is leaving.

The 27-year-old from Bargoed made 83 appearances for the Rodney Parade region - winning the Argus Dragon of the Year trophy for a stunning 2012/13 that put him on the Wales radar - before leaving for Bath in 2015.

The livewire half-back returned to Wales the following season and helped the Scarlets to win the PRO12 in Dublin three years ago. He made 52 appearances out west.

The Scarlets have also announced that Kieron Fonotia, Corey Baldwin, Morgan Williams, Simon Gardiner and Rhys Fawcett are leaving while ex-Wales wing Tom James is retiring.

All the departures – along with those of head coach Brad Mooar and his assistant Ioan Cunningham – will happen before any return to training.

"It is always difficult to say farewell to players and coaches, but far more so this season because of the current circumstances," said Scarlets general manager of rugby Jon Daniels.