No Wales sabbatical for Bath fly-half

Bath fly-half Rhys Priestland has reversed his decision to take an 18-month sabbatical from Wales international rugby. The former Scarlet's initial decision was announced by Bath boss Mike Ford in October. "We agreed to sign Rhys on the basis that he did not play international rugby," Ford said. "He's now decided that, if selected for Wales, he wants to play for them again." Ford added: "That was one of the reasons we've signed Dan Bowden, but we're hoping Rhys will be with us for the two years of his contract, and possibly beyond that." With the 2016 Six Nations approaching, Priestland now wants to challenge Dan Biggar for Wales' No 10 jersey. That has prompted Bath to sign utility back Bowden from New Zealand. Ford had hoped Priestland's presence would cover for the absence of the coach's son George with England during the Six Nations. But if Wales coach Warren Gatland picks Priestland, Bath will have fly-half/centre Bowden to call on.