Ball vows to kick on for Scarlets this season

The 23-year-old forward forced his way into the Scarlets' pack in an excellent 2013-14, playing 18 times in the league as his side finished sixth.

Ball also won five caps for Wales, making his debut against Ireland before featuring in the recent tour to South Africa.

But the imposing 6ft6in 19st lock insists there is room for improvement in his game ahead of Scarlets' training camp in Tenby this week.

"The key for me is to avoid sitting back and being seen as a one-season wonder," he told the South Wales Evening Post.

"I have to back up what I did last term and have set myself small goals that I'd like to achieve.

"I have the mentality that I can't simply be happy with my performances - I always have to keep working on those parts of my game that need attention."

This summer has brought changes in the Scarlets' back-room staff and with experienced New Zealander Wayne Pivac on board, Ball is confident his side will provide a challenge for every team in this year's competition.

"On our day I think we can beat most teams," he said. It's a case of us believing in ourselves and playing our game.

"I like the brand of rugby we intend playing and the other boys like it as well. If we all buy into it then it'll stand us in good stead."

Ball will also look to draw on his time in South Africa, when he was part of the Welsh side that narrowly lost 31-30 in the second Test.

"Touring with Wales earlier this summer was a great experience," he added.

"It was a disappointment not to make the first Test but I kept going and managed to get in there for the second. It was great to be able to have a run-out against South Africa."

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