Cardiff Rugby have continued building for the future by agreeing fresh terms with in-form hooker Liam Belcher.
The 27-year-old has been a standout performer for the Blue and Blacks, frequently captaining the team and leading from the front with all action displays.
Belcher has signed a one year contract in the summer but he has now extended his stay with a long-term deal to remain as one of Matt Sherratt’s key lieutenants.
Sherratt said: “We’re delighted to keep Liam as he’s is a really important figure for the club, both with his performances on the pitch and the way he conducts himself and leads by example off it.
“He has been excellent for us in that regard this season, delivering a real consistency to his performances and working so hard with the other young hookers in our group.
“His technical abilities are superb, he is a great athlete with explosive power and a real understanding of the game.
“He will remain integral to this group as we continue to grow at the Arms Park.”
Belcher came through the club’s pathway and made quickly displayed his leadership credentials, captaining the Under-18s set-up.
He made his first team debut in 2014, and has now amassed 74 appearances for the Blue and Blacks, while he also spent a solitary season with the Dragons.
He said: “I’m very grateful for the continued opportunity to play at this level and owe a huge amount to my family and previous coaches, who have put so much time into helping me become better.
“Playing for this club means a huge amount to me and I am particularly pleased with the way this group has come through the adversity of last summer to get to where we are now. We have stuck together whether in highs or lows and fought for the badge.
“It is an exciting time at the club, I’ll continue to give my all and I’m really looking forward to seeing how much we can grow as a group. Ultimately we want to become a club that regularly competes in knockout rugby and I’m looking forward to playing my part. "