Kennedy making a big mark at Scarlets

JAKE Ball says new Scarlets recruit Ed Kennedy has all the ability to follow in his footsteps and become a huge success in Llanelli.

Welsh-qualified blindside Kennedy was picked up by head coach Wayne Pivac from semi-professional Australian side Randwick, a club which produced Wallaby greats David Campese and George Gregan, plus England coach Eddie Jones.

Injuries to Aaron Shingler and Uzair Cassiem have afforded the previously unheard of Kennedy a chance this term. It’s one the 24-yearold has taken, much to the pleasure of current Wales lock Ball.

“Coming from semi-professional rugby it would have been a big jump up for Ed, but he’s chucked everything at it and he’s willing to learn,” he said.

“One of the most pleasing things is that he is so physical. He puts himself about on the field and from a coaching point of view that gives them something easy to work with.

“He’s getting better at all the dark arts such as the driving line-out which is something they don’t put a lot of emphasis on back in Australia.

“We’ve got some exciting players that have come in and added to the group and Ed is one of them. He’s put in some big performances and he’s got huge potential.”

Ball was playing second tier rugby in Australia – like Kennedy – in 2012, but his move to Wales has seen him quickly become an established Test figure.

He has 28 caps for Warren Gatland’s side and has his eye on a first World Cup in Japan after recovering from a horrific shoulder injury suffered against New Zealand last autumn.

“I’m just pleased to be back fit, it was one of the most painful injuries I’ve ever had,” Ball said. “They spent a good couple of hours trying to put my shoulder back in the changing room before I went to hospital. It’s good to be able to forget about that and be back out on the pitch.”