Priestland looking to fill Jones' boots

It would appear that Wales' Six Nations campaign could well be rescued by the strength in depth of regional side, Scarlets. With Stephen Jones - capped 95 times by his country - looking doubtful for the start of the 2011 campaign following an incident in which he strained his knee ligaments during a recent 35-17 win over Treviso for his club, his understudy, Rhys Priestland, is odds-on to keep his shirt warm for him.

The 23-year-old has filled in for Jones at club level whenever the star fly-half is on national duty, and has received glowing reviews in a season where his side are currently sitting third in the Welsh Premiership, with the rugby union odds suggesting they can push on. His performances have not gone un-noticed by his coach Nigel Davies either, with him describing him as a top player, only lacking in experience - but this is something which is fast being remedied following Jones’ unfortunate injury. Priestland himself has admitted to feeling a degree of sympathy for his stricken team-mate, but has vowed to make the most of his opportunity.

"I don’t want Steve to be injured but if it is an opportunity for me, I have to take it," he said.

"Christmas is always a busy period in Welsh rugby and if you are playing well for your region you are going to be there or thereabouts for Wales… but ideally I would just like to concentrate on what is happening down at the Scarlets."

Wales also have the option of moving prodigious talent James Hook into the No. 10 berth which would mean Priestland could also play at full-back for his national side - a position he’s played in for Scarlets a number of times over the last couple of seasons.

Alternatively, a space opening up in the back-line could mean an opportunity for prodigal son, Gavin Henson, who has recently affirmed his desire to become a star once more for his national side after putting a long list of off-field incidents behind him. Henson has said that he believes that despite what the Six Nations betting odds say, Wales can do the Grand Slam next year.

Whatever happens, the emergence of Priestland as a serious candidate to take part in Wales' Six Nations campaign will certainly be a boost to the chances of recapturing the title.