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In form flanker James Davies has signed a new contract with the Scarlets that will keep him at the region until at least the summer of 2018.

Davies has been one of the Scarlets’ top performers during their surge to the top of the Guinness Pro12 and tops the region’s charts for the most tackles, jackals, carries and turnovers.

He made his breakthrough in earnest last term, winning the Players’ Player of the Year award, and now Davies, 25 and currently out of action with a broken foot, has been rewarded for his excellence.

Scarlets head coach Wayne Pivac said: “We’re very pleased to see James extend his contract and remain here at the Scarlets for at least another two seasons.

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“Statistically he’s our top tackler, he’s top of the breakdown list and he tops the chart with most carries; he’s a very valuable player for us.

“We’re obviously disappointed to be without him on the field for the next few months as he recovers from his foot injury but he’ll no doubt make a return hungrier than ever for those all-important final few months of the season.”

Davies added: “I’m delighted to have signed an extension to my contract with the Scarlets. I’m looking forward to continuing my development with the Scarlets and continue to play with my mates again for the next couple of years. It will also be a great honour to play alongside Jon at the club.

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“Things have been going well for me personally but also for the team. The injury is frustrating but I will be working hard on my recovery over the coming months to get back to fitness as quickly as possible.

“The goal is to make a return to finish the season off strongly with the Scarlets just as we have started but it’s also every player’s dream to play for their country.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to do that on the 7s circuit and cherish those experiences but would be delighted to be able to achieve the same in the 15-a-side game.”

Davies joins hooker Ken Owens, second row Jake Ball, flankers John Barclay and Aaron Shingler, props Rob Evans and Samson Lee, full-back Liam Williams, scrum-half Aled Davies and his returning centre brother Jonathan Davies, in committing to the Scarlets.