Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union

James Davies helped Scarlets win the 2016-17 Pro12 title

Flanker James Davies, an Olympic silver medallist in 2016, has agreed a contract extension with Scarlets.

Davies, 27, was a key player as the Scarlets won the 2016-17 Pro12, but has been out of action since September after shoulder surgery.

The younger brother of Wales centre Jonathan Davies, he was a member of the Great Britain sevens team that were runners-up to Fiji in Rio 2016.

"I'm over the moon that he's re-signed," said coach Wayne Pivac.

"James is a very important member of the squad both on and off the field.

"He continually leads the stats tables and his general play has been magnificent. We look forward to continuing to work with him over the next couple of years."

Openside Davies has made 66 appearances for the region, the bulk of those coming after the Rio Games as Davies switched his priority to the 15-a-side form of the game.

He is set to return to action this weekend in Bloemfontein when Scarlets play Cheetahs.

"It's been a frustrating start to the season for me on a personal note having to watch from the sidelines, but I am pleased to have signed a contract extension with the Scarlets," he said.

"It's great to get back into the routine of things and back into side that's doing well. We want to carry on the momentum from last year and positive start to this season towards the money end of the season."