Cardiff Blues have strengthened their forward resources with the signing of Rowan Jenkins on a short-term deal from Aberavon.
The 29-year-old has long been one of the standout performers at Welsh Premiership level and has enjoyed previous spells with the Ospreys and Leeds Carnegie.
He links up with Wales’ Capital Region to add further strength in depth and experience at loose-head prop following Rhys Carré’s inclusion in the Wales autumn squad and injury to Rhys Gill.
Jenkins, who has represented Wales U18s and made more than 250 appearances for the Wizards, will compete with Corey Domachowski and Brad Thyer in the coming weeks.
Cardiff Blues head coach John Mulvihill said: “With Rhys Gill out injured and Rhys Carré in the Wales squad, we are slightly stretched in the front-row and needed to bring in a bit more strength in depth.
“Rowan is a top-quality loose head, who has been one of the best props operating in the Welsh Premiership for a number of years and also has regional experience.
“He will provide back up and competition for Brad Thyer and Corey Domachowski, while getting the opportunity to make a statement at regional level.”
Jenkins will feature in this afternoon’s A team fixture against the Dragons, having linked up with Cardiff Blues earlier this month, and is grateful to be given an opportunity in a Cardiff Blues jersey.
He added: “It’s been a real privilege to be invited into Cardiff Blues environment and given this opportunity, particularly at this time and all the uncertainty around rugby.
“The Blues got in touch through Tom Smith a couple of weeks ago and it has been great to train with the region and I’m now looking forward to getting onto the pitch.
“I’ve also been very fortunate to have the full support of Aberavon and their chairman Andrew Vaughan, who have allowed me to take up this opportunity to advance my career.”