Scarlets lock Jake Ball signs dual contract with Welsh Rugby Union

Scarlets lock Jake Ball has signed a new dual contract with the Welsh Rugby Union and his region.

The 23-year-old, who has won eight caps to date, joins Sam Warburton, Dan Lydiate, Rhodri Jones, Hallam Amos and Tyler Morgan in signing a deal with the WRU.

National dual contracts were forged as part of the Rugby Services Agreement between the WRU and Wales' four professional regions - Scarlets, Ospreys, Cardiff Blues and Newport Gwent Dragons.

They are 60 per cent funded by the WRU and 40 per cent by regions from a total £3.3m pot.

"I am delighted to have signed a national dual contract and to be staying in Wales," Ball said.

"The NDC (national dual contract) was a big factor in my decision, as I get to work hand in hand with the management at the Welsh Rugby Union as well as the Scarlets.

"Player welfare is extremely important, and being looked after by both parties is great for me.

It's been a fantastic year for me. I am still taking everything step by step and want to perform as well as I can for the Scarlets to put my hand up for selection for the Six Nations.

"It's been a fantastic year for me. I am still taking everything step by step and want to perform as well as I can for the Scarlets to put my hand up for selection for the Six Nations."

Wales head coach Warren Gatland added: "The signing of Jake on a national dual contract is another important step for the future of the game in Wales.

"A player of Jake's calibre and age attracted serious interest from outside of Wales, but the introduction of NDCs means another Wales international has committed his future to Wales and his region."