Wales centre Eddie James has signed a new long-term contract with the Scarlets, committing his future to the Llanelli-based region.
The 24-year-old, who has won 11 caps for Wales, has opted to remain at Parc y Scarlets despite the Welsh Rugby Union's plans to reduce the number of professional clubs from four to three, setting the Scarlets against arch-rivals the Ospreys in the battle for the West Wales licence.
Pathway to the top
From Carmarthen, James played his junior rugby for Carmarthen Quins before starring for Coleg Sir Gâr and coming through the ranks of the Academy to play for Wales U18s and U20s, then establishing himself in the Scarlets senior side.
Standing at 6ft 4in and weighing 104kg, James brings a point of difference to the Scarlets midfield. He is one of the most explosive and dynamic ball carriers in Welsh rugby, with slick hands, a strong defensive game and the ability to play at speed.
He made his Test debut against the Springboks in 2024 and has since become one of Wales' leading midfield operators.
Director of rugby praise
Scarlets director of rugby Nigel Davies said: "Keeping Eddie at Parc y Scarlets is a very significant signing for our club and we are delighted he will continue his rugby journey with us."
"Having players like Eddie at the heart of what we're building is every bit as important as new players coming into the squad. We're proud of our ethos of developing our own players and we want to give our young Welsh players an environment in which they know they can achieve their ambitions in a Scarlets jersey."
Davies added: "Eddie has come through our pathway, represented Wales through the age grades and is now an established international player. That's a journey we want other young players to mirror across our region and to be able to see and believe in."
Competition for places
James will face stiff competition at Parc y Scarlets, with Joe Hawkins, Johnny Williams, Joe Roberts and Macs Page fighting for a place in the midfield.
James said: "Growing up in the region and supporting the Scarlets as a youngster, the club means a huge amount to me, it's home to me and so it was an easy decision to extend my contract and I am delighted to be staying on at Parc y Scarlets."
He added: "It's an exciting season ahead for us. The new signings have added to the talent we already have and there's a clear ambition about where we want to go as a group. There's competition building and that will push standards and make us a better team."
James is looking forward to the opening URC game of the season against Cardiff at the Parc, saying: "It would be great to have a big crowd to kick off the new chapter."
