Six Nations: Iestyn pledges comeback

Iestyn Harris has vowed to bounce back after being dropped by Wales for this weekend’s Lloyds TSB Six Nations clash with France.

The Cardiff back was left out by caretaker coach Steve Hansen after struggling to make an impact since his big-money switch from rugby league.

Harris has been replaced in the Wales side by Saracens’ Tom Shanklin, who will make his Six Nations debut in the game at the Millennium Stadium.

Former Leeds Rhinos star Harris said: ‘‘I deny ever saying there is a vendetta against me. That is not the case.

‘‘I am naturally disappointed to have been left out of the Welsh team for this weekend’s international, but I fully understand the coaches’ reasons for putting me on the bench.

‘‘As I have made clear many times, these are still very early days for me in rugby union and I have always believed there is a lot for me to learn.

‘‘The Welsh public have been very supportive of me and I feel they understand the difficulties that I have faced in making the switch to rugby union.

‘‘I can assure all Welsh rugby fans that I am determined to be a success in rugby union and I am looking forward to working with my coaches to enable me to fulfill my potential.’’