Johnny McNicholl has signed a new long-term deal with the Scarlets , meaning he will be available to play for Wales later this year.
The razor sharp winger, who is pure box office on his day, will be eligible to pull on the famous red jersey after this year's Rugby World Cup.
McNicholl arrived in west Wales back in November 2016, joining from Super Rugby's Crusaders.
Although residency rules have now been extended to a five-year requirement, players who moved to their country of residence before the start of 2018 are still captured by the previous three-year rule.
Incoming Wales boss Wayne Pivac - who takes up his new post after the World Cup - brought McNicholl to these shores and knows all about what he has to offer.
In 59 appearances for the Scarlets - all of them under Pivac - he has bagged 27 tries.
It's a huge boost for the region, who looked like they may lose their man when a big-money offer from Japan was tabled.
Next season, Crusaders assistant coach Brad Mooar, who worked with McNicholl before his move to Wales, will take over from Pivac and it's something the winger is looking forward to.
“I am happy that everything has been finalised and I’m staying at the Scarlets,” said McNicholl.
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“Myself and my family are settled here in Wales and have been made to feel very welcome.
“We have had some great success over the last couple of years and hopefully there is more to come.
“I’m looking forward to reconnecting with my former Crusaders coach Brad Mooar and feel there are exciting times ahead.”
Pivac said: “It is great news that Johnny has signed a new contract,” said Scarlets head coach Wayne Pivac.
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“He has been one of the most dangerous attacking threats in the PRO14 in recent years and played a big part in us reaching successive finals and a European semi-final.
“With the news of Jon, Ken and Rob signing last week, this is another significant signing for the Scarlets. The squad is looking strong for next season.”
The Scarlets have announced the news less than a week after Willis Halaholo, who also qualifies to play for Wales on residency in November, Wales now have a new potential star later this year as New Zealand-born centre targets selection
When the prospect of playing for Wales has been raised in the past, McNicholl has always tread carefully.
“I have said before, I don’t even know if I want to play for Wales. Am I Welsh? It is a tough question to answer, I don’t know,” McNicholl said last year.
