The Scarlets have bolstered their front five with a former Wales international
Former Wales lock Jake Ball has made a sensational return to the Scarlets months after announcing his retirement from the game.
The 33-year-old spent nine seasons at the Scarlets, making 133 appearances and playing a crucial role in the PRO12 title-winning campaign of 2016/17. Ball also made his mark on the international circuit, winning 50 caps for Wales with his powerful carrying, raw physicality and no-nonsense approach a big asset for both club and country for the best part of a decade.
Ball left the Scarlets in 2021 to return home to Australia before later signing for Japanese outfit NEC Green Rockets.
But you are a long time retired and Ball has decided his professional rugby career is not over yet by signing a contract at the Scarlets to replace Scotland international Alex Craig, who is joining Glasgow Warriors at the end of the season.
Upon retiring Ball set up a supplement company in Western Australia having completely transformed his body and lifestyle over the last few years.
“I can’t wait to get back in and get started again,” said Ball. 25% OFF DEAL NOW: Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby
“When I left the Scarlets, it was around Covid and it didn’t feel like the farewell I wanted. Then, since I finished in Japan and announced my retirement from rugby, I have had this feeling of unfinished business.
“When I heard the Scarlets were looking for a second row, I spoke to Peely (Dwayne Peel) and Cubby (James Davies) and they spoke about what is building at the club, the exciting young talent coming through, the environment and ambition there and I wanted to be part of that.
“I have missed playing, I have missed the professionalism of the game. Obviously, myself and my family know the Scarlets well, know the area and we loved it during our time there – the place, the people. Get the latest breaking Welsh rugby news stories sent straight to your inbox with our FREE daily newsletter. Sign up here.
“I am excited by the challenge of being a professional rugby player again, the training, the match-days – as I said, I have missed it.
“I hope I can add my experience and help the younger players in the squad and learn a few things from them as well.
“Scarlets are a great club, who gave me my chance when I came over to Welsh rugby, they had faith in me when I first came over and that means a huge amount to me.
“Physically, I feel in a better place than when I left and the ambition to play at the top level still burns bright.”
Given the lack of big physical second-rows in Welsh rugby it is not inconceivable Ball might represent Wales again.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Jake back to the Scarlets,” said Scarlets head coach Peel. Join WalesOnline Rugby’s WhatsApp Channel here to get the breaking news sent straight to your phone for free
“He was a popular member of the club and a big fans’ favourite, someone who played more than a century of games for the Scarlets and had a big part to play in the title-winning season.
“We all know the qualities he possesses as a player and as a leader. His professionalism and workrate will be an example to the young group of players we have coming through.
“From the conversations I have had with Jake, it is clear he feels he has plenty more to offer. He has been keeping himself in great condition since returning from Japan and we can’t wait to see him back here for the start of the pre-season.”
