Welsh flyhalf Rhys Priestland faces a race against time to be fit for this weekend's World Cup semifinal against France after sustaining a shoulder injury in his team's quarterfinal victory over Ireland.

Priestland went off three minutes before the end of the victory over Ireland in Wellington and carried his left arm in a sling on Sunday and Monday.

Priestland has enjoyed a stunning rise in the Welsh team since making his debut against Scotland in February in the Six Nations.

His poise and decision-making since moving from fullback to flyhalf have so impressed the coaches that he was started at No.10 in the quarterfinal ahead of Stephen Jones, the record-holder for most appearances for Wales, and the versatile James Hook.

Wales coach Warren Gatland, who is due to name his side to play France on Thursday, has the option of calling up either Jones or Hook, who has played Tests as a flyhalf, if Priestland is ruled out.

Hook, Wales' fullback in their opening two pool games before a shoulder problem interrupted his World Cup, confirmed his availability on Wednesday.

"I would be there if needed and selected," said Hook.

"Rhys has taken his chance superbly, and he fully deserves the credit he has been having."

Hook injured his shoulder against Samoa, and missed the remaining pool games against Namibia and Fiji. He and Jones have been taking extra kicking practice this week in preparation for Wales' shot at their first World Cup final.

Priestland is Wales's lone major concern ahead of their first World Cup semifinal for 24 years, with powerful midfielder Jamie Roberts (nose), captain Sam Warburton (groin) and lock Luke Charteris (shoulder) all expected to be fit to face the French.

AFP