The following year he played in the first of four World Cups, where he became the youngest try scorer in the tournament’s history at 19 years and 166 days.

He would go on to become the first Welshman to play in four World Cup quarter-finals.

North spent most of his international career on the wing before switching to centre under Wayne Pivac for the 2021 Six Nations, in which he claimed a fourth title.

There were challenges in his illustrious career, most notably his much-publicised issues with concussions.

After establishing himself at Scarlets, North joined Northampton in 2013, winning the Premiership title and the European Challenge Cup a year later.

He returned to Wales in 2018 on a national dual contract with Ospreys before leaving for Provence amid financial uncertainty in Welsh rugby.

His spell in France has not been helped by injury. Having suffered a ruptured Achilles in his final Wales game, against Italy in March 2024, he did not make his Provence debut until January 2025.

He has made 16 appearances for Provence, four of which have come this season.

North, who is married to former world champion sprint cyclist Becky James, said he is “still working on” on the next chapter will be in his stellar career.

“But I am excited to see where that journey takes me,” he added.