The 34-year-old No 10 has signed a long-term contract at the Arms Park, where he will challenge Jarrod Evans for the pivot role. Having notched 810 points in 109 games for Bath since leaving the Scarlets he has become a key cog in the west country club’s side.
“It is important to have quality players competing for every position and Rhys will bring further strength and depth to our options in the No 10 jersey and drive standards,” said Blues interim head coach, Dai Young.
“He brings an abundance of experience and, having worked in the Premiership for so long, I’m very aware of the qualities he will bring to the Blues. He is a first class goal-kicker, has a quality tactical kicking game, he’s a great distributor, he can run an attacking game and is also sound in defence.
“He is experienced, very professional and will relish competing for a starting spot at the Arms Park, while also helping young players develop their all round games.”
With 150 appearances for the Scarlets behind him before he headed across the Prince of Wales Bridge, the man who helped to guide Wales into the semi-finals at the 2011 World Cup, win the Grand Slam in 2012 and score 103 points in 53 Tests for Wales is well used to Regional derbies and playing in the PRO14.
“I have loved my time at Bath. I needed a change of environment and possibly stayed at the Scarlets a year too long but moving here has been great for me,” said Priestland.
“Some of the coaches and players I have had the opportunity to work and play with has been great, I have learnt a lot and enjoyed playing in the Premiership.
‘However, now is the right time to come back to Wales. The Blues have a really exciting squad and some talented young coaches who I know well, like Richie Rees, Tom Smith and Dwayne Peel, who will also be joining next season.
“Everyone speaks very highly of Dai and he has achieved some great things in the game as a coach with the Blues and Wasps. I’m really looking forward to hopefully working for him.
“I still have plenty to give on the pitch and I look forward to competing for a starting jersey and to hopefully passing on my experience in the game.”
