Dan Thomas joins Cardiff

Cardiff have bolstered their back-row resources with the signing of Dan Thomas.

The openside flanker returns to Wales following a highly successful spell with Bristol Bears in the English Premiership.

Thomas spent seven seasons with the Bears, making 144 appearances, but now follows in the footsteps of Callum Sheedy in moving from Ashton Gate to Cardiff Arms Park ahead of the 2024-25 season. 

The 30-year-old is relishing the opportunity to return to Wales and is excited about what is being built by the Blue and Blacks under the guidance of Matt Sherratt. 

He said: “I had a great time at Bristol and hold so many fond memories but I am now really excited to join Cardiff and have the opportunity to represent such a great club.

“I am a proud Welshman and to be able to return home to Wales with Cardiff was a big pull in my decision. 

“I have been really impressed by the brand of rugby Cardiff play and feel it suits my own attributes and playing style, so I am excited to get involved in that and do what I can for the team.

“Being able to play in the URC is also something that appealed to me given the challenge of going up against so many different playing styles in different countries and environments.”

Thomas, who came through the Scarlets academy and also spent time with Gloucester, will compete with Thomas Young and James Botham for the number seven jersey, while providing experience to guide up and coming talents such as Gwilym Bradley and Lucas de la Rua.

Matt Sherratt believes he is the perfect fit for the Cardiff back-row both in terms of playing style, and his personality and experience. 

He said: “I’m really pleased to bring Dan on board ahead of next season and feel he is a really good fit for the club. 

“He comes from a good environment, where he has played more than 140 games and won silverware but also arrives with a point to prove in Wales. 

“He suits our attacking playing style as a fast and dynamic openside, who is effective on both sides of the ball and has a lot of experience from the Premiership. 

“Although already very experienced he is highly motivated to prove a point in Wales and will compete hard for a place in our back-row while helping both the young players in his position and those alongside him.”