Second Wind for a Welsh Warrior

At 34, Jake Ball is rewriting rugby's aging narrative. The 50-cap international's return to Scarlets after a brief Japanese stint with NEC Green Rockets has injected veteran steel into the Welsh region's pack.

"Leaving Japan early for family reasons left unfinished business," Ball told BBC Sport Wales. "When Scarlets called, it felt like destiny."

Career Crossroads to Comeback Catalyst

• Reversed retirement decision after 2021 exit during COVID disruptions
• Credits nutrition-focused training regimen for maintaining peak condition
• Played 133 games for Scarlets across nine seasons (2012-2021)
• 2019 Grand Slam winner & World Cup semi-finalist with Wales

International Ambitions Rekindled

Ball remains open to Wales recall under new coach Warren Gatland's regime:

"I never officially retired. Performances here could reopen that door."

Key Connections:

• Worked with defense coach Mike Tandy during 2019 Six Nations
• Familiar with forwards coach Danny Wilson from Scarlets' 2016-2018 era

Family First Philosophy

Ball's return was fueled by personal priorities:

• Missed birth of fourth child during Japan stint
• Now reunited with family in Llanelli
• Sons (5 & 7) play mini-rugby at Loughor RFC

"Seeing them embrace rugby makes every tackle worthwhile," Ball beamed.

URC 2023 Outlook

As Scarlets prepare for Saturday's opener against Munster, Ball emphasizes:

"This isn't a victory lap. We're building something special here."

Pre-Season Indicators:

• Featured in 28-19 friendly loss to Dragons
• Leadership role in young forward pack
• Set-piece expertise crucial for European ambitions

By the Numbers

"Age is just a number when you train smarter," Ball concluded, eyes fixed on Saturday's Parc y Scarlets showdown.