Patchell’s all set for a Scarlets return

RHYS Patchell is set to make his return from injury to provide the Scarlets with a timely boost heading into the final straight of the Guinness Pro12 play-off race.

The Wales international hasn’t played since damaging an ankle against his old side Cardiff Blues on New Year’s Day, a setback that needed surgery and a 12-week stint on the sidelines.

The fly-half, who played two Tests against the All Blacks last summer, has now made a full recovery and will be part of the Scarlets’ match-day 23 for Friday night’s clash with Edinburgh in Llanelli.

“Rhys is going really well, he has been cleared and he will take part in the game, it is just a matter of deciding whether he starts or comes off the bench,” confirmed Scarlets head coach Wayne Pivac.

“He was playing well before injury, what we have got to factor in is the rust that comes with the time out he has had from the game.”

In Patchell’s absence, former Wales Under-20s fly-half Dan Jones has impressed in the No. 10 jersey for the West Walians.

The Scarlets will be without Wales internationals Jake Ball and Scott Williams as they continue to assess their Six Nations contingent in the wake of a bruising Championship campaign.

Skipper Ken Owens, nominated as one of the players of the tournament, could also be given a break after starting every match.

“We are going through each player individually, they are being screened so we know exactly where we are at and who will be involved this week,” added Pivac.

“Some will start, some will come off the bench and some will have a break because of injury.“Jake Ball won’t recover in time from his head injury (from Paris) and Scotty Williams is pretty banged up, he needs a break.

“We will also look at Ken, who has had a lot of rugby, starting every match in the Six Nations.”

Flanker James Davies has overcome the leg injury that forced him off during the 45-9 thumping at the hands of leaders Leinster in Dublin last time out.