Wales' scrum-half Webb re-signs dual contract

Ospreys and Wales scrum-half Rhys Webb has committed his future to his region and to Wales after re-signing a national dual contract on Wednesday.

Webb's move follows that of regional and international team-mate Dan Biggar.

The scrum-half made his Wales debut in 2012 and has gone on to make 16 appearances for his country.

Welsh Rugby Union group chief executive Martyn Phillips said: "It is fantastic to see another Welsh international re-sign a National Dual Contract and commit their playing future to their region and in Wales.

"We are continuing to work closely with the regions to ensure our top players remain in Wales and the signing of Rhys is further evidence of this relationship working."

Webb, who missed out on the World Cup through injury, said: "I'm over the moon to have been able to re-sign an NDC.

"With this security I can concentrate on my rehab without any distractions, knowing that I can put all my efforts into getting back out onto the pitch in the coming months and doing what I love doing the most, which is playing for the Ospreys."

Last month Clermont centre Jonathan Davies agreed to return to Wales and the Scarlets on a national dual contract to join four Ospreys, Scott Baldwin, James King, Dan Baker and Rory Thornton, who recently signed deals.

The national dual contract structure was agreed by the WRU and the four regions under the terms of their joint Rugby Services Agreement in order to keep the best playing talent in Wales playing for one of the four professional Welsh teams.

Despite that, fly-half Rhys Priestland opted to sign for Bath this season, with No 8 Taulupe Faletau and lock Luke Charteris also due to join the English club, while star Toulon full-back Leigh Halfpenny is widely expected to opt to join Wasps from next season.
Source: AFP