Duncan Bell (left) was a cornerstone of the Pontypridd pack

The former Pontypridd and Ebbw Vale man has withdrawn from England A duty, after being named on the bench against France A in Perpignan this weekend.

Bell qualifies for Wales on residency grounds in May, just before the summer tour to Argentina and South Africa.

"It was a real honour to be selected, but I didn't feel it was in my best interests," the tight head said.

"From my perspective, it seemed nonsensical to sit on the bench - and possibly not even get on - when it would mean a potential international career over."

Bell, 29, was called up by the England A coaching staff after his Bath colleague David Flatman pulled out of the Perpignan trip through injury.

"I was given the opportunity to play for England A this weekend, but I wasn't initially picked for the side and I knew David Flatman was injured," added Bell, who commutes to Bath training from his home in Wales.

I love Wales and I would be honoured to represent them Duncan Bell

"So when I got the phone call, I knew I was only there because of injuries. I spoke to Alan Phillips and Steve Hansen to get their opinions, and also phoned Steve Diamond, the England A coach, who coached me at Sale.

"Talking to them, we were all of the opinion that it probably wasn't in my best interests to go out to France and sit on the bench for England A.

"If I did that, there would be no turning back. I would have to commit myself to England, and come May when I am eligible for Wales, I wouldn't have been able to take that any further.

"If there had been a whole Six Nations A Championship, and I was selected as part of that squad, then things might have been different.

"I spoke to the Welsh management before I left Pontypridd for Bath, and they were keen for me to live in Wales and qualify through that route, and I was keen to do it.

"I love Wales and, if they feel I am playing well enough once I have qualified, I would be honoured to represent them."

However, Bell will have to impress a new coach, as Hansen's reign ends after this season's RBS Six Nations championship.

Llanelli Scarlets coach Gareth Jenkins and Harlequins boss Mark Evans are the two candidates to replace Hansen, with final interviews taking place this week before a possible announcement in around 10 days' time.

Jenkins remains the favourite, but 44-year-old Evans - who was raised in Cardiff - has emerged to become a surprise main challenger.