Webb calls new Welsh policy 'a joke' in emotional outburst

Rhys Webb will become the first casualty of Welsh rugby’s new selection policy when he joins Toulon on a three-year deal at the end of the season.

The scrum-half says that he won’t be changing his mind and is heartbroken that he will become ineligible for Wales.

Under the changes, those playing their domestic rugby outside Wales will now only be available for the national team providing they have won 60 caps or more.

“I don’t know how long it’s going to take me to get over it,” Webb told BBC Sport Wales.

“It’s a joke.”

“I’m disappointed.”

“Representing your country means so much to me and being told I won’t be able to play for them is heartbreaking.”

“No-one mentioned it was going to change”

Gatland in a previous interview had mentioned that there was a clause in his contract that could see Webb remain in Wales and eligible for selection.

“I won’t be doing that (opting out of Toulon deal). My future lies in Toulon,” said Webb.

“He explained there could be a new system in place, he didn’t say there was or there is, just talks about it potentially happening.”

“I signed for Toulon on the basis if I was playing well I could still be considered.”

“It was still such a tough decision.”

“I felt I had to speak to the Ospreys face to face.”

“It was heartbreaking to tell them.”

“No-one had told me [about the policy change].

“Not even the Ospreys had mentioned in when I went to see them.”

Speaking about the WRU and how the policy introduction was handled, Webb said:

“I probably would have liked someone to come and explain to me how I’d been captured.”

“It’s baffling.”

“I’m very disappointed with Welsh rugby right now.”

“I just know playing for Wales is why you play the game.”

“Being picked for Wales is still a dream now.”

“To know that won’t be happening again is hurtful, it’s genuinely just upsetting.”