Jeff Hassler has decided to take a step back from rugby, dashing prospects of a comeback with English club Harlequins.

The former Ospreys wing had been on a trial with The Stoop-based outfit.

But he has indicated to family and others who are close to him that he has decided to take time out of the game to pursue other interests.

It is believed Hassler plans to embark on a sailing course.

(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency)

He has also said in the past he is keen to travel.

There were suggestions on social media that the 26-year-old had decided to retire from professional rugby with immediate effect. However, WalesOnline understands Hassler hasn’t ruled out the possibility of playing again at some point.

A source said: “Jeff is having a break from the game to look at a few other things, including a sailing course.

“He is a guy for whom rugby isn’t everything.

“He didn’t pursue the sport: he sort of fell into it. He is someone with a lot of interests and this break will give him time to pursue a few of those.”

Canada will be keen to know how definite Hassler’s plans are as they look towards their final shot at qualifying for the 2019 World Cup. They are in a repechage tournament in November and would want a player of Hassler’s experience and quality available, but they would presumably need guarantees on his fitness.

It would hardly be ideal if he weren’t playing in the months before the autumn matches.

Hassler started the whole saga himself by activating a release clause in his contract at the Ospreys.

He subsequently decided he wanted to stay in Swansea, after all, but the region had committed funds elsewhere, with George North and Lesley Klim coming in.

Canada, who are coached by Kingsley Jones, will doubtless seek clarification from the hard-running former grid-iron player.