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Ben Thomas to skipper as Cardiff make six changes for Ulster

First Team News | 25th October 2024


Ben Thomas will captain Cardiff as the Blue & Blacks make six changes for their clash against Ulster in the BKT United Rugby Championship. 

Thomas, who was this week named in the Wales autumn squad, is one of just two changes to the back line, reforming his partnership with Rey Lee-Lo as Mason Grady moves onto the wing.

The four further changes in the pack see Evan Lloyd and Keiron Assiratti combine with Ed Byrne in the front-row and Ben Donnell and Dan Thomas recalled to action in the back-row.

Cardiff slipped to a controversial 19-17 defeat to Ulster last season and will be aiming to finish the first block of URC fixtures on a high back at the Arms Park.

Head coach Matt Sherratt was pleased with the commitment shown last week in Edinburgh and has urged his side to take another step up. 

He said: “We’re all really looking forward to Saturday and hopefully finishing this block of fixtures on a high against a quality Ulster side. 

“We played them last season in an exciting, all-action game, which we probably should have won and we know what is coming from them. They have had a good start to the season, but we have shown previously that we can beat any team on our day at the Arms Park.

“The fight, effort and commitment the boys showed up in Edinburgh was fantastic and gives us plenty to build on. 

“We have pinpointed a few areas to improve and with a bit more accuracy over 80 minutes, there is no reason why we can’t secure the win. 

Wales internationals Corey Domachowski, Rory Thornton, James Botham and Thomas Young are all included on the bench. 

Cardiff Rugby: Cam Winnett; Mason Grady, Rey Lee-Lo, Ben Thomas, Iwan Stephens, Callum Sheedy, Aled Davies; Ed Byrne, Evan Lloyd, Keiron Assiratti, Josh McNally, Teddy Williams, Ben Donnell, Dan Thomas, Alun Lawrence. 

Replacement: Daf Hughes, Corey Domachowski, Rhys Litterick, Rory Thornon, James Botham, Thomas Young, Johan Mulder, Rory Jennings.