North: Scored two tries on his international debut

The Scarlets ace has enjoyed a memorable breakthrough season, with the teenager scoring two tries on his international debut against South Africa in the autumn.

The 19-year-old went on to play against Fiji and New Zealand before a shoulder injury meant he had to wait until the Six Nationals finale against France to win a fourth cap.

North is now set to play against the Barbarians on Saturday with his sights set on strengthening his claims for a World Cup place.

He said: "I have had to pinch myself a few times this season. If someone had told me 12 months ago that I would be in a position to go to the World Cup I would have just laughed at them.

"Scoring two tries on my debut was unbelievable and it's an honour to be involved with the national side but I know that I have to keep working hard on my game.

"There is more to come from me and I have been doing a lot of work with (former Wales wing) Mark Jones at the Scarlets, looking at areas of my game that I can improve on in attack, in defence and under the high ball."

North was understandably disappointed to have his progress hindered by his injury, which required surgery, but he believes his body is now up to the rigours of the Test game.

"It was a very frustrating time," he said. "When I got my chance I wanted to stay there, but it proved to be a big learning curve for me, and it was one that I needed.

"My body was not ready for that volume of rugby, but I feel I am now coping well with it."