The Scarlets lock has impressed alongside captain Alun Wyn Jones in the victory over Italy and narrow defeat to England last weekend. Ball was left frustrated after missing most of last year’s Under Armour Series campaign with a rib injury.
But he has come back stronger than ever, and he cannot wait to continue his RBS 6 Nations journey in a mouthwatering clash with Scotland at BT Murrayfield.
He said: “The Scotland game is massive, we’re both on five points and it will be tough to go up their and face them at their place. They’re playing some good rugby and I’m expecting one hell of a clash.
“It’s another exciting challenge to come up against the Gray brothers. Both are great players and they contribute all around the park whether it be at the lineout, with their carries and they work well as a combination. It will be a great opportunity again if selected.
“I love playing for Wales and international rugby is where you want to be. I have had some low points with injuries in the past. The timing of them was frustrating. I’ve put in a bit more effort and done the extras and I need to keep my head on the task.”
Ball could face some competition for his second row spot with the news that Luke Charteris is nearing a return from a hand and hamstring injury. Ball has received plaudits following his pair of hard-hitting performances so far, but he has revealed his father Dave, who played for Harlequins and London Welsh, is his biggest critic.
He said: “One of the people I take most note of is my old man. He is pretty honest with me. If he is tip toeing around I know I haven’t had one of my better games. He said it was one of my better games at the weekend! I didn’t get an email listing what I needed to work on!”
