Jake Ball performs retirement U-turn by sealing Wales return

Wales lock Jake Ball has signed for the Scarlets ahead of next season, reversing his decision to retire.

The 33-year-old spent almost a decade at Parc y Scarlets between 2012 and 2021, amassing 133 appearances and a further 50 for Wales in that time before relocating to Japan.

Ahead of the current Japan Rugby League One season, the lock announced that he would retire at the end of the campaign, but departed in December. He has now opted to extend his career with a Scarlets side that have been busy ahead of next season.

Ball’s arrival will fill the void left by Scotland lock Alex Craig, whose move to Glasgow Warriors was recently announced.

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After his return to the Scarlets was announced, Ball said: “I can’t wait to get back in and get started again. 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 and Cubby and they chatted 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.

“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.”

Head coach Dwayne Peel added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Jake back to the Scarlets.

“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.”