Evan Lloyd signs a new contract with Cardiff Rugby

Evan Lloyd is the latest homegrown star to sign a new deal with Cardiff Rugby – pointing to the exciting future building in the Welsh capital. 

The hooker was due to come out of contract in the summer and was attracting interest from clubs on both sides of the border.

But he has followed in the footsteps of fellow Wales internationals Alex Mann and James Botham by committing to Cardiff and he is determined to play his part as the club continues to grow.

Home club pride

Lloyd said: “I’m delighted to extend my stay at Cardiff. It’s a club that means a lot to me and I am very grateful for the trust they continue to put in me. 

“To represent your home club is always special and it is something me and my family are very proud of.

“I feel like I have grown and developed a lot this season, both on and off the pitch. I have worked hard to improve my consistency and overall game, but I am also really keen to continue learning and developing. 

“As a club we want to keep pushing forward and I want to play my part in that. I want to help bring success to Cardiff and I am excited by what we can achieve together.

“I’m looking forward to getting back on the pitch very soon and my focus is on giving everything for the fans and the badge.

“The support we receive from our fans is special, especially at the Arms Park and that is something that drives me every day. It’s an absolute honour to wear the blue & black shirt and represent the city.” 

From back-row to hooker with huge potential

The 24-year-old, who was born in Penarth, came right through the club’s pathway. He attended Stanwell and then captained CAVC Rugby Academy as a talented backrow forward. 

Making the switch to hooker after representing Wales Under-20s, Lloyd quickly progressed in the position and made his first team debut in 2023.

With 39 appearances and eight Wales caps, Lloyd is now an established and important regular, and Corniel van Zyl is excited about about his future in Blue & Black. 

He said: “It’s great for the club that Evan has re-signed here. He has a massive future.

“As everyone can see, Ev is physically blessed and has a very high ceiling. He is big man, he’s well developed physically, is powerful and explosive, bringing an all-round game.

“As a converted back-row, he is still very young in terms of his training age as a hooker so there is still a lot more potential. 

“His set-piece continues to develop, which is crucial. It is an area of his game which he has worked hard on and we have seen real improvements there this year, and I have no doubt that there is more to come. 

“Off the pitch, Ev is also a really good man, he is highly motivated and eager to learn. This is his home club and it means a lot to him to wear the Blue & Black jersey.”