Scarlets flanker Aaron Shingler signs new contract
Tuesday 17 November 2015 13:20, UK
Aaron Shingler has committed his future to Scarlets, signing a contract extension that will keep him at the Parc y Scarlets until at least the end of the 2016-17 season.
The 28-year-old Wales flanker has become a fan favourite since making his debut in 2009 and is delighted at re-signing with the club he began his career with.
"Scarlets gave me my first opportunity at professional rugby and I'm excited to continue my development with my home region," the former Glamorgan cricketer told Scarlets' website.
"It's important for me to be playing at the highest level to continue my personal development and the Scarlets, as one of the top two regions in Wales playing in the top flight of Europe, gives me that opportunity.
Scarlets coach Wayne Pivac said it's a big coup for the club to tie up the future of Shingler, who has scored 11 tries in his 121 appearances and won praise for his leadership and defensive qualities.
"We are delighted that Aaron has joined fellow back-rower John Barclay in re-signing for the region," Pivac added.
"Aaron was the leading line-out forward in the PRO12 last season and brings maturity and experience to the group. Both Aaron and John are leaders in our group, both on and off the field, and are influential in the development of the young guys in the squad."
With Shingler targeting a return to the Welsh national team since playing his last Test in June 2014, Scarlets general manager of rugby Jon Daniels says the PRO12 club is the best place for him to achieve that aim.
"We are delighted Aaron sees the Scarlets environment as the best place to be to further his international ambitions with Wales," Daniels said.
"A strong Wales team needs strong regions competing in the Guinness PRO12 and European Rugby Champions Cup and for this it is vital we retain homegrown talent like Aaron. There is no doubt that players with international ambitions with Wales are recognising the best place to be is in Wales - despite significant interest from across the Bristol and English Channels."
The Welsh club's next match sees French side Racing 92 visit the Parc y Scarlets on Saturday November 21 in the European Rugby Champions Cup.
