Scarlets continue to invest in local talent

The investment in the region's most promising young talent sees James Davies, one of Wales Sevens bright young things, move from a dual contract at the Scarlets to a full senior contract.

Davies, 23, the younger brother of outgoing Scarlets centre and British and Irish Lion Jonathan Davies, has made two appearance for the West Wales region, coming off the replacements bench against Newport Gwent Dragons and Saracens in 2013-14 in the LV= Cup.

A Wales Sevens debut came at the Gold Coast Sevens in 2012 where he appeared in all five games and was the stand-out figure in the second round of the 2012 series in Dubai where he was an instrumental figure in Wales claiming the Plate against Canada in the final.

Davies was handed the honour of Wales Sevens captaincy during the 2013-14 series and has been called into the Wales 'Possibles' squad for the Trial Match which will take place later this month.

Scarlets Head Coach Simon Easterby said: "It's great to see James join us on a full senior contract having had a successful season with Wales Sevens and strong performances for the Quins in the Principality Premiership.

"Bringing young players through into the senior environment is a part of our ethos here at the Scarlets to develop young talent from within our region. James has shown great potential already and has benefited from exposure early on to the demands of professional rugby with Wales Sevens.

"James has been a part of our environment here at Parc y Scarlets during the last season and has brought with him a great energy and work ethic. We will undoubtedly see James develop even further as he trains alongside existing experienced players here at the Scarlets and new faces that we have coming in to strengthen key areas of our rugby group for next season."

Davies, who was named WRPA Sevens Player of the Season last week, added: "I have really enjoyed being a part of the Scarlets this season and it's a real honour to have been handed a full time contract.

"I've learnt so much in the short time that I've been at Parc y Scarlets and I'm looking forward to continuing my development as a player - it's a fantastic opportunity for me."