Rhys Priestland
Aviva Premiership Rugby club Bath have signed Welsh international flyhalf Rhys Priestland from the 2015 / 2016 Premiership season from Welsh side the Scarlets.
Twenty-seven-year-old Priestland is closing in on 150 appearances for the Scarlets for whom he has scored over 1000 points.
Priestland, who has 32 caps for his country, burst onto the international scene in the 2011 Rugby World Cup, where he steered Wales to their first semi-final since 1987.
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“My entire rugby career has been spent in Wales and, although I’ve enjoyed that time enormously, I need a new challenge,” said the 27-year-old from Carmarthen.
“I’ve been really impressed watching Bath develop over the past couple of years into one of the most exciting teams in the country. It’s a world-class organisation in every sense, including the players, coaching staff and facilities.”
Mike Ford, Head Coach of Bath Rugby, said,”Rhys is a fantastic player with an impressive pedigree: his record with Scarlets and Wales speaks for itself. He’s got a wide range of talents that suit our game plan and he’ll make a great addition to our squad. ”
“He’s still quite a young guy, but one with a lot of experience that will be really valuable, especially in the development of our younger players.”
He represented Wales Under 19’s and Under 20’s before winning his first senior international cap during the 2011 Six Nations campaign in the 24-6 victory over Scotland. He established himself as Wales’ first choice flyhalf at the 2011 Rugby World Cup and has 32 caps.
Since making his competitive debut in Scarlets colours in September 2007 the unassuming flyhalf has gone on to make 147 appearance for the region amassing a current total of 1059 points – just 6 points away from breaking Stephen Jones’ regional record and becoming the highest scoring Scarlet in regional history. He has been a part of some historical victories in his 10-year tenure at the region.
Scarlets Head Coach Wayne Pivac said,”We are disappointed to see Rhys go, he’s been a big part of the region for a long period of time and is a true professional both on and off the field. We appreciate that this is a great opportunity for Rhys to further develop and progress on a personal level.
“As a region we were keen to retain Rhys’ services but were unable to do so. Despite our desire and commitment to retain all of our international players within the region there are times when it’s not the right decision for the individual player at the time.
“Rhys has developed into a skilled flyhalf who commands excellence at all times and his leadership qualities, experience and maturity will be missed.
“This is an exciting new challenge for Rhys; he goes with our blessing and he will always be a Scarlet. He has been a great servant and we wish him well with his future.”
Speaking about his decision to leave his region of origin Rhys Priestland said,”I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here at the Scarlets; there have been some great highs and some heartfelt lows.
“It’s a huge privilege to have played with some of the players I have during my time here with the Scarlets.
“I have been lucky to have been involved in some fantastic fixtures and career highlights here at the Scarlets would have to include representing the region in the Heineken Cup over the years.
“The Scarlets has been my home for a number of years and all that I’ve known as a club as a senior professional player. I will certainly miss the place and will be leaving some great friends behind but there’s a long way to go this season. I just enjoy playing for this team. It’s my home region and every time I pull on the shirt it’s an honour.
“I will be fully committed to helping the team achieve the ambitions we have set ourselves at the start of the season. Hopefully it can keep on improving for me personally and as team for the rest of the season.”