Cardiff Rugby have continued investing in the future by signing second row Harri Lewis on a long-term Academy contract.

A Pontyclun RFC player and Year 10 student at Ysgol Y Pant, he played an integral part in their Pontypridd Schools’ Dewar Shield winning team this season.

He will now link up with the Cardiff Academy after the current U16s programme and will also attend Llandovery College from September as a supported Cardiff scholar.

Gruff Rees, Cardiff Rugby Academy manager added: “Harri is someone we have long identified in the pathway as a real talent, and he has really impressed with some great support from Justin Burnell (Pontypridd Schools), Dafydd Davies (Ysgol Y Pant) and Ben Barclay (Pontyclun RFC).

“We are mindful he is still young, and we will nurture him carefully over the next few years. We are confident that Llandovery will provide fantastic support both in terms of his rugby and educational needs.

“In conjunction with Llandovery and ourselves and having Josh Turnbull working closely with him as his mentor, we truly believe that Harri will thrive.”

Dominic Findlay, Llandovery College Warden, commented: “We are delighted to see Harri join Llandovery College for next year.

“As this year’s Cardiff scholar, we look forward to working together with the Cardiff staff to develop Harri into an even better Rugby player, whilst ensuring his academic potential is met.

“Harri is an outstanding athlete who has the potential to go a long way in the Welsh game”