Aviva Premiership
Bath bring in Welsh fly-half Rhys Priestland
ESPN Staff
January 6, 2015

Bath have completed the signing of Wales fly-half Rhys Priestland who will join them after the World Cup.

Priestland is expected to have signed a two-year deal with Bath and will vie with George Ford for the No.10 shirt. With 32 caps for Wales, Priestland, 27, will bring a wealth of experience to the role and he is looking forward to making the swap.

"My entire rugby career has been spent in Wales and, although I've enjoyed that time enormously, I need a new challenge," Priestland said. "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."

Bath coach Mike Ford added: "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."

Priestland's departure leaves the Scarlets with a void to fill at fly-half and Wayne Pivac paid tribute to the departing No.10 "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," Pivac said. "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 fly half 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."

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