Le Roux Malan joins Cardiff

Cardiff Rugby are thrilled to strengthen their back-line firepower with the signing of Le Roux Malan from Hollywoodbets Sharks.

The versatile back, who came through the system in Durban, has featured predominantly in the centre, making eight first team appearances for the Sharks this season.

But he now moves to the Welsh capital bringing a combination of his natural size and athleticism with a high skill set. 

Corniel van Zyl believes the Namibia international can add to the group, providing further size and physicality to the Cardiff back-line.

Van Zyl said: “We are delighted to bring Le Roux to the Arms Park next season. He has really improved his all-round game over the last few seasons – he has put in some impressive performances for the Sharks since joining them in November and stood out against us a few weeks ago. 

“It’s an area where we needed some more strength in depth. He’s a big, physical boy, who has played international rugby and will push the standards, while he’s versatile enough to play 13, 12 and wing if needed.

“From watching him closely and speaking to people in South Africa, his work-rate is one of his biggest strengths, he has brilliant ball skills, he can finish and he can be physical. 

Outside experience to enhance environment

“He has experienced the game around the world going from Cape Town to the Sharks for three years and then to America where rotated seasons between the MLR and the NPC in New Zealand. 

“So he will be good for the environment, bringing that experience from other clubs. He is very keen to contribute to the culture and environment here, while testing himself somewhere new.”

Malan, who was born in Windhoek but grew up in South Africa, has enjoyed a well-travelled career since graduating from the University of Cape Town and joining the Sharks academy. 

He has enjoyed stints at New England Free Jacks, where he won three consecutive MLR titles, and Hawke’s Bay before returning to the Sharks on a season-long deal. 

Malan had the option of to remain in South Africa but is relishing the challenge of taking his game to the next level in a new club and country.

New exciting chapter

He said: “I’m really looking forward to joining Cardiff. I have always wanted to play my rugby abroad, especially in the UK so I am excited for the opportunity to learn a new style. I’m also someone who really values different cultures and embracing it, so I can’t wait to meet the Welsh people and form part of the club.

“From what I have heard the people are extremely humble, hard-working and friendly and those are qualities that I value and try to carry in my life. 

“Also knowing the strong history of the club, seeing the upward trend in the last couple of years and hearing about the project, I am so excited to play my part.

“The project that Corniel (van Zyl) laid out is something that excites me. It is something I feel I can add value to, but I also believe I can learn and grow as a player and a human as well. 

“Playing at the Arms Park is going to be very cool. It is such an historical ground and I can’t wait to represent the club. 

“Cardiff is also a sports mad city, that’s something I am passionate about and looking forward to experiencing, I’ve also visited in the past and it is really beautiful place. 

“So I’m just excited for this as an opportunity and to have such a life experience. I can’t wait to meet the boys, all the staff and of course the supporters. I’m so excited to get stuck in.”