South Africa-born lock George Earle signs contract extension with Llanelli Scarlets

George Earle has secured a contract extension with the Scarlets and will qualify for Wales in time for this year’s World Cup on residency rules.

The lock, born in Durban and played for the Cheetahs prior to his move to Llanelli, was named players’ player of the year in his first season after a 2012 move.

Earle cited being settled in the west Wales area as being a key factor in his decision to agree to a new deal.

“It was important for me to get it done and dusted,” said the 28-year-old, who will qualify for Wales this summer as he has spent three years in the region.

“A player needs security in order to play well. This is the club I want to play for. I've been around a couple of teams but this is where I feel I belong. It was the easiest decision of my life to extend my contract here.

“We may have taken a back-step this season but I feel over the last two or three seasons we've really improved as a squad. I feel the breakthrough is really near and I want to be a part of that. I think the belief is growing and I really want to be part of something great in this region and in this club.

“I’ve made brilliant friends and people I'll remember for the rest of my life. The people are great; I love how passionate they are about rugby and maybe just the respect other people have shown me and how they've valued me as a player and as a person.

"One day when I leave hopefully I will always be remembered and will be proud to say that the club I played for was Scarlets.”

Scarlets head coach Wayne Pivac said: "George becomes Welsh qualified this summer having done three years here in West Wales and is now a big part of the club. He's fitted in well and brings some seniority and maturity to the group.

“With such a young average age in the squad it is important to get that blend of experience and youth and having strong characters and leaders like George in the mix is important to achieve that balance.”