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Cardiff Blues Ultimate XV | Blindside flanker

First Team News | 6th April 2020


You have named your ultimate front-five, now we turn our attention to the back-row, starting with blindside flanker.

Take your pick and vote below as we build the Ultimate XV.

 

Dan Baugh (2003-2004 | 18 appearances | 4 tries | 27 caps for Canada)

Dan Baugh only featured for a single season in the regional era, but is without doubt one of the most popular imports to feature at the Arms Park. The bruising Canadian gained a reputation as a hard-man and his no holds barred performances established his place as a Cardiff rugby legend. There’s no doubt that Baugh would also have inspired many youngsters to tuck in their jersey collars on the pitch!

 

Maama Molitika (2004-2006, 2007-2012 | 146 appearances | 17 tries | 18 caps for Tonga, 3 for Pacific Islanders)

Tongan back row Maama Molitika joined Cardiff Blues following spells with Bridgend, Celtic Warriors and Harlequins. The powerful flanker gained a reputation for his ball carrying ability and his work rate and started in the 2010 Amlin Cup final win over Toulon. He remains a fan favourite to this day and unbelievably, at 44 years old, Molitika still features for English Championship outfit, Ampthill.

 

Josh Navidi (2009-present | 173 appearances | 21 tries | 24 caps for Wales)

Josh Navidi graduated from the Cardiff Blues academy and has made a total of 173 appearances for the region since his debut against Leinster in 2009. While the dreadlocked back row had to remain patient for regular selection at international level, Cardiff Blues fans had no doubts about his talent as Navidi consistently performed for the region from season to season. Navidi has also picked up numerous individual accolades including Cardiff Blues Player of the Season and Welsh Rugby Writers’ Player of the Season.

 

Michael Paterson (2010-2013 | 57 appearances | 4 tries)

Kiwi back row Michael Paterson arrived at the Welsh capital from Hurricanes in 2010, despite being in contention for a spot in the All Blacks squad. The Christchurch-born forward could feature at lock or back row and impressed during his time at the Welsh capital. Paterson would move to Sale Sharks in 2013 and featured in a non-capped match for England against Barbarians.

 

Josh Turnbull (2014-present | 135 appearances | 15 tries | 10 caps for Wales)

Josh Turnbull arrived at the Welsh capital in 2014, with 119 appearances under his belt for his home region. The utility forward has been Mr Dependable since the switch, scooping up the Peter Thomas Player of the Season award in 2016. He provides grit into the pack, and is capable of producing big hits at key moments, and has managed a rare achievement of making more than 100 appearances for two regions.

 

 

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