Pivac: Owens needs game-time for Scarlets

Owens could have been in line for a call-up to the Wales squad, but Pivac believes more time at regional level is needed to ensure the 28-year-old is back to full fitness.

Having been out since September, Owens made his comeback in the Anglo-Welsh Cup before returning to GUINNESS PRO12 action last weekend - playing 65 minutes in Sunday's resounding win over Connacht.

"I thought he went very well against Connacht with 65 minutes at this level, and he could have gone more but we felt the job had been done and he could do with the breather," Pivac told Wales Online.

"There have been no discussions with Wales for the moment. I think if Ken had got out and played in some of the games prior to the [Anglo-Welsh Cup] then he would have been considered.

"But going in cold would have not been the right thing to do, and common sense says to start at this level and see how he goes over the next few weeks in the GUINNESS PRO12."

But while the Scarlets boss effectively ruled Owens out of Wales action, Pivac backed winger Liam Williams to keep his place in Warren Gatland's side after starring in last weekend's game with Scotland.

Williams created a try for Ospreys' scrum-half Rhys Webb and topped the carries, clean breaks and metres gained charts for Wales.

Pivac added: "Liam is a very talented player. I have said it many times; if we had 15 Liam Williams' in our side we would be near the top of the GUINNESS PRO12 table, if not at the top.

"He's a great character. He's a very strong player and brings a physical component. Given his size he is also very powerful."

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