TIGHTHEAD prop Samson Lee has signed a national dual contract with the Scarlets and the Welsh Rugby Union.

The 22-year-old, who is currently sidelined by a neck injury, has won nine caps and established himself as Warren Gatland’s first choice since usurping Adam Jones against South Africa last summer.

He follows Newport Gwent Dragons pair Hallam Amos and Tyler Morgan, Cardiff Blues’ Sam Warburton, the Ospreys’ Dan Lydiate and regional teammates Rhodri Jones and Jake Ball in penning a dual deal.

Gatland said: "Samson has developed rapidly and proven his ability in a position where we continue build strength in depth.

"His performances for the Scarlets and Wales have shown how he is a quick learner who understands the requirements of the role and the demands on a modern tight head."

Lee said: "This was an easy decision for me, a National Dual Contract is the best of both worlds.

"It allows me to commit to the Scarlets, where I'm enjoying my rugby and where I feel at home, but it also hopefully allows for exciting times ahead with Wales.

"I hope I can continue to repay the faith placed in me by both by the Scarlets and the WRU coaches on the pitch and am delighted that I will be attempting to do so at Parc y Scarlets for the foreseeable future.”