Priestland to take break from international rugby

Rhys Priestland will take an 18-month break from playing for Wales, according to his Bath coach Mike Ford.

The fly-half, 28, has joined up with the English Premiership side following Wales' exit from the World Cup.

Priestland, who has won 40 caps for Wales, signed for Bath this year after 10 years playing for Scarlets and made his debut in Saturday's loss at Wasps.

"We want Rhys with us and he's going to take a break from international rugby for the next 18 months," Ford said.

"[It's] his choice and he wants to develop here, get settled at Bath and put a lot of effort and time into being the best player he can be at Bath.

"When George [Ford, the England fly-half and son of Mike Ford] is away with the Six Nations, Rhys will be our 10.

"Eighteen months later is still two years away from the next World Cup and he's still young enough, if he wants to carry on playing for his country, he can do. George Ford will compete with Rhys Priestland for the Bath fly-half position