Former Wales lock Ball to retire at end of season

Former Wales lock Jake Ball has announced he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the season.

The 33-year-old, who won 50 Wales caps, was part of the Grand Slam-winning side in 2019 and a World Cup semi-finalist that same year.

Ball, who now plays for NEC Green Rockets in Japan, began his career with Western Force before joining Scarlets, making 133 appearances in nine seasons.

Announcing his decision on Instagram, he said: "Professional rugby has been my dream, my passion and my career for the last 15 years.

"I have made the tough decision to retire at the end of the 2024-25 season in order to spend more time with my family."

Ball joined Scarlets in 2012 and was a member of the squad that won what was then the Pro12 title in 2016-17.

"Every chapter has enabled me to live out that childhood dream," he said.

"To my team-mates, coaches, staff and fans I have made some great friendships and memories that I will cherish.

"Thank you for the support and good times over the years."