Big boost for Wales as Scott Williams signs on

Wales centre Scott Williams has extended his contract to stay with the Scarlets for another two years.
This is a major boost for both the Scarlets and Welsh rugby as the civil war between the WRU and the regions drags on.
The 23-year-old has earned 24 caps for Wales since making his debut in June 2011 while wearing the Scarlets shirt 70 times.
The region has already lost Williams’ partner in the midfield Jonathan Davies who is going to Clermont while fly-half Rhys Priestland is yet to decide on his future.
Williams said: “I’m really pleased to have secured my contract with the Scarlets going forward and to have committed my future to rugby in Wales.
“It’s really good to have this all secured now, so I can concentrate solely on my rugby and the campaign ahead of us, both with Wales in the Six Nations and then back to RaboDirect PRO12 league action with the Scarlets.”
Head Coach Simon Easterby added: “Scott is an exceptional talent, he has shown his maturity and skill now on the big stage. He is everything you need from a top-class centre – he’s powerful, quick and decisive with a very good passing and kicking game. We are all delighted that he’s staying at the Scarlets and committing his future to our Region. It’s great news for our whole rugby community from the coaches, to our Scarlets players, supporters, sponsors, partners and all those involved in supporting and developing talent in our region.
“Given all the debate about retaining our best players in Wales, it’s a real positive for Welsh rugby as a whole that one of our top internationals has chosen to stay here to play his rugby.
“Scott is an excellent professional; he works hard, is ambitious, competitive and works well within the Scarlets team dynamic – setting high standards for himself and others. He thoroughly deserves the positive recognition and profile he has received as a player both for the Scarlets and Wales and there was a lot of demand and competition to secure him in contract.
“It’s very significant and important to our Region to have extended Scott’s contract as a key player to build our squad around. We’re proud that someone of his ability, experience and with a genuine passion for our region, has committed to remain with us in the seasons to come.”