Talented forward Macauley Cook has today signed a new long-term contract extension to remain at Cardiff Blues.

Cook, who can operate at lock or back row, was already contracted until the end of the 2015/16 season.

But he has now pledged his future by agreeing a new two-year extension to remain at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park until at least 2018.

The 23-year-old is rated as one of the most exciting young talents in Welsh rugby and has become a key component in the pack at Blues.

Cook has featured in more games than any other Cardiff Blues player this season with 20 appearances in all competitions. He has played a total of 68 games for Blues – scoring seven tries.

A former member of the Blues Academy, Cook made his senior debut against Exeter Chiefs in 2010.

The Rhondda product, who graduated into the Academy from his local club Treorchy, was an almost ever present during the 2013/14 season and was rewarded when he was named the Most Promising Player of the Season by the coaching staff at the end of season awards.

Cook said: “I’m excited to sign the contract extension and be able to look forward to the rest of this season and many more years to come at Cardiff Blues.

“We have a quality squad and coaching team here and it’s a great place to be at the moment.

“I’ve been part of the system at Cardiff Blues for many years and come through the Academy and into the first team squad with a number of my team-mates. We are close as a squad and we are all looking forward to a bright future.”

Director of Rugby Mark Hammett added: “Macauley is a real leader with heart. He’s an intelligent guy and has made a big impression again this season.

“To have him committing here is fantastic and we look forward to seeing him develop as a player over the coming seasons at Cardiff Blues.”