The former captain was overlooked for the majority of the triumphant 2013 RBS 6 Nations campaign with Richard Hibbard nailing down the number two jersey and Ken Owens utilised on the bench.
Rees subsequently missed out on the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia and was also left of Wales’ squad for the two-Test series of Japan as Robin McBryde focussed on developing young talent.
But the 33-year-old is determined to use his move to Cardiff Blues, following nine years with the Scarlets, as a launch pad for further international honours.
“For me personally, it’s a case of getting back to where I was a couple of seasons ago in terms of playing,” said Rees.
“I’ve got an opportunity with the Blues and I just can’t wait to get the jersey on and start playing.
“I was frustrated not to be involved in the majority of the Six Nations games after the loss against Ireland.
“It was great to see so many boys do well towards the end of that campaign and they were rewarded with the Lions tour.
“As much as I was disappointed, at the end of the day no-one else is going to change that.
“It’s only myself who is going to get me back in that Welsh squad. That’s the challenge I am faced with.
“Not going on tour this summer has given me a couple of months to re-address myself and move forward to the next challenge and that challenge is with Cardiff Blues. I’ll look to get a couple of games under my belt and get my form back up there and, hopefully, put myself back in contention for the Welsh squad.
“International rugby is demanding and it’s gone to another level in recent years.
“But it’s only one career you have, so retiring from Test rugby has not even entered my mind.
“I just want to keep on playing rugby for as long as I can. I’m definitely coming back with a point to prove.”
But Rees is well aware of the competition for places in Warren Gatland’s squad and was hugely impressed with the form of Hibbard on the recent Lions tour.
“Hibs is a quality player and has gone up a couple of levels in his fitness, which is something he’s perhaps lacked in the past,” added Rees.
“He’s been playing well for the Ospreys and he was given the opportunity in the Six Nations and he took it.
“It’s about timing and being in the right place.”
