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Wales fly-half Rhys Priestland has reversed his decision to take an 18-month sabbatical from international rugby
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The Bath man’s initial decision was announced by current boss Mike Ford in October
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Bath have quickly moved to sign utility back Bowden from New Zealand as extra cover
Bath fly-half Rhys Priestland has reversed his decision to stop playing for Wales and has made himself available for Warren Gatkabd’s squad for the 2016 Six Nations.
Priestland joined Bath from Scarlets to provide top-quality cover for England Number 10, George Ford, subsequently announcing following Wales elimination from the World Cup in October that he was taking an 18-month sabbatical from international rugby to concentrate on his club career.
However, with the 2016 Six Nations fast approaching, Priestland now wants to challenge Dan Biggar for Wales’ No 10 jersey.
And following the fly-half’s decision Bath coach Mike Ford said: “We agreed to sign Rhys on the basis that he did not play international rugby,
“He’s now decided that, if selected for Wales, he wants to play for them again.”
Ford added: “That’s one of the reasons we have brought in Dan Bowden. It’s now up to Warren Gatland if he wants to pick Rhys or not.
“He has only made two starts for us, but he was good for us last Saturday when we beat Worcester Warriors. He will start again this weekend in the game at Newcastle Falcons.
“He has been fantastic in training and it is obvious to everyone that he is a highly experienced and intelligent footballer.
“Whether or not he plays for Wales in the Six Nations we hope to keep him at Bath for the full length of his contract and possibly beyond.”