Mike Phillips back in Wales squad after agreeing to counselling

Wales have reinstated Mike Phillips into their extended World Cup squad after the Lions scrum-half agreed to seek counselling following the latest in a series of late-night incidents in the centre of Cardiff. Police were called this month after the 28-year old Phillips was refused entry into a fast-food restaurant at 3am and tussled with security staff. He was led away in handcuffs before being released without charge. Phillips was dropped from the Wales squad after footage of the incident, the third involving him in as many years, was posted on the internet. He was reinstated on Monday after apologising to the Welsh Rugby Union and saying that he was seeking help to address his behavioural issues. "This is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to me in my career," said Phillips. "I am ashamed and I am determined to put things right. I am passionate as a player and never back down, but I know I cannot allow that part of my character to surface off the pitch. "I have realised I have an issue with the way in which I deal with, and have dealt with, the pressures of my current environment and have sought, and will continue to seek, help and advice in relation to that. I have formally and sincerely apologised to my team-mates and the coaching staff in the Welsh squad. I am a professional rugby player and I give the game my all, but there have been times when I have let myself down as well as my family, the fans and my team-mates. I deeply regret my behaviour." The Wales coach, Warren Gatland, will be putting his squad through a demanding fitness session this week. Anyone who fails will not be taken to the training camp in Poland next week. "Mike is back in the extended squad after we took into account all the relevant issues and his apology," said Gatland. "He clearly breached the disciplinary code of conduct and was dealt with decisively and properly. An important factor in allowing him back was his decision to actively seek help to resolve his behavioural issues." The Saracens hooker Schalk Brits has joined the Stormers on loan ahead of this weekend's Super 15 semi-final against the Crusaders. He needed dispensation because of a rule that stipulates a player must have appeared in at least four matches in the regular season to take part in knockout matches, and it was granted because the South African franchise have injury problems in the back row, which is where Brits will operate.