Wales team news

The experienced centre withdrew from Wales' injury-ravaged squad to face South Africa to help his weakened Sale team in Friday's game with Leicester.

Taylor told Wales management he had a holding clause in his contract with Sale, signed at the end of last season.

"We're trying to get clarity on this and hope to reach a resolution in a few weeks," said Wales coach Mike Ruddock.

I'd like to thank the management team for handling this issue in such a sensitive way Mark Taylor

"Rather than involving ourselves in a tug-of-war over a player during a Test week we have taken the dignified approach and done what is best for all parties by releasing Mark back to his club for the weekend.

"It's a difficult situation for all. Mark is a valued member of the squad and may well have figured somewhere in the selection mix, but the potential disruption and distraction of the issue was entirely unwanted."

Ruddock hopes to have the player available for next week's Test with Australia.

Taylor, 32 was seemingly out of the international picture at the start of the year.

But a Wales injury drama ahead of the Grand Slam game with Ireland in March saw a late call-up for Taylor on the wing, and he played an important role in Wales' triumph.

After leaving the Scarlets for Sale, he went on to captain Wales on their summer tour of the USA and Canada, winning his 50th cap against the States and scoring a try against the Canucks.

Taylor scores a try on the summer tour against Canada

Taylor was in the starting line-up against New Zealand before returning for club duty on the Fiji weekend, but IRB regulations would seem to require his release against South Africa if he was wanted by Wales.

Taylor was thankful of the stance the Wales management team have taken on the issue, whilst maintaining his desire to play for his country.

"I'd like to thank the management for handling this issue in such a sensitive way," said Taylor.

"I will use the next few days to speak to my club owner and attempt to resolve the situation."