Wales and Scarlets lock Ball retires aged 34

Wales and Scarlets lock Ball retires aged 34Image source, Huw Evans Picture AgencyImage caption, Lock Jake Ball was part of the 2019 Wales side that won the Grand Slam and reached a World Cup semi-finalsByGareth GriffithsBBC Sport WalesPublished2 minutes agoCommentsWales and Scarlets lock Jake Ball has played his last game of professional rugby after announcing he will retire at the end of the season.The 34-year-old, who is currently injured, played 50 times for Wales and made 148 Scarlets appearances during two playing stints.Ball said he will hang up his boots at the end of the season, citing "injuries and future business commitments".After initially announcing he would finish his playing career with Japanese club NEC Green Rockets, Ball rejoined Scarlets in summer 2025 and has made 13 appearances this season.Ball will miss the final United Rugby Championship (URC) match against Dragons at Parc y Scarlets on Saturday (17:15 BST) because of a hand injury.He will be in Llanelli with his wife, Christie, and children to say farewell to the home supporters."It feels like the right time, I've had a few head knocks, a couple of injuries," said Ball."I think my body is telling me something, I am glad I came back and gave it another go at the Scarlets. "I've enjoyed being back in the environment and being a professional rugby player again."To be able to retire here, at the club where it all started for me, makes it more special."Elias enjoying rugby again after 'low period' Published5 days agoScarlets agree permanent deal with loanee CucksonPublished7 days agoScotland prop Hepburn agrees Edinburgh movePublished30 AprilBorn in Ascot, but raised in Australia from the age of 16, Ball arrived in Llanelli in 2012 from Super Rugby side Western Force.In a nine-year stint, Ball was part of the Scarlets squad that won the Pro12 league title in 2017 and reached the European Champions Cup semi-final the following year.Ball l...