Friday 23 March 2018 10:04, UK
Jamie Roberts is refusing to give up hope of a Wales recall ahead of next year's Rugby World Cup in Japan.
The Harlequins centre was left out of Warren Gatland's squad for the Six Nations as the Wales head coach opted to blood new players and implement a more expansive gameplan.
Roberts watched on as Wales won three of their five fixtures to finish second but hopes a strong finish to the season with Harlequins could see him selected for his country's June tour, where they face South Africa in Washington before a two-Test series in Argentina.
The 31-year-old told Sky Sports News: "I've been told the door's not closed and if that's still the case I'll fight tooth and nail to get involved with Wales again, especially in a World Cup year.
"The World Cup is an amazing tournament to play in and is something I'll strive for over the next 12-16 months."
Roberts will leave Harlequins for Aviva Premiership rivals Bath at the end of the season and revealed he declined an overseas move in order to stay in Wales contention.
"I had an offer from a club in Japan but I don't think I'm quite ready for that yet," said Roberts, who has won 94 caps for Wales and toured twice with the British and Irish Lions.
"I still want to play Test rugby and didn't want to rule that out, especially in a World Cup year. In a few years we'll readdress but I'm really happy with the move to Bath.
"Do I still feel I'm getting better as a player? No doubt and that's one of the reasons for moving clubs.
"Sometimes a fresh group of players and coaches can reap its rewards. I'm looking forward to that. Hopefully a new environment will reinvigorate me."
