The Welsh Rugby Union has tied four more players down to National Dual Contracts, with Alun Wyn Jones, Dan Biggar, Scott Williams and Gareth Anscombe all signing.

The announcement sees the number of NDC players rise to 12 in Wales following Rhys Webb's commitment yesterday.

Captain Sam Warburton, Dan Lydiate, Jake Ball, Samson Lee, Rhodri Jones, Tyler Morgan and Hallam Amos have all already signed up, and Wales coach Warren Gatland believes that more players joining will only be a good thing for the future of rugby in the country.

"Alun Wyn, Dan, Scott and Gareth represent a cross-section of experience, but each one of them is a player of proven talent," Gatland is quoted as saying by PA.

"Within the group of 12 we have signed a mixture of emerging talent and players who have secured reputations for excellence through their appearances for their regions, Wales and the British & Irish Lions.

"The strength of the group is of great benefit to professional rugby in Wales and we are looking forward to working closely with the regions and these players in the years ahead."

The announcement comes just days before Wales take on Italy in their final match of the Six Nations, with four teams still in with a chance of lifting the title.