Ellis Bevan has penned a new Cardiff Rugby contract after enjoying a breakthrough season at the Arms Park.
The scrum-half, who starts against Ulster tomorrow night, has featured in 14 games so far this season, taking his overall tally in Blue and Black to 26.
And the 24-year-old has now pledged his future to Cardiff after signing a new long-term deal.
Bevan said: “I’m extremely pleased to be staying at Cardiff, particularly with how my season has unfolded. This opportunity to represent Cardiff and showcase my skills has been really gratifying.
“I’ve been working hard to maintain my performance levels throughout the season whether that’s during training or games and I’m happy with the contribution I’ve made to the team’s progression.
“Cardiff feels like home to me now. The sense of belonging, camaraderie and support I’ve received from my teammates, coaches, fans and the entire organisation has been unparalleled and motivates me to give my absolute all every time I pull on the jersey.
“Cardiff as a city also factors into my decision, and having lived here for six years I have grown a genuine fondness for the city.
“Looking to the future, my hopes are to continue pushing myself to new heights as a rugby player, and contribute even more to this team.
“I believe the club will aid me in further developing my skills, both individually and as part of the team and hopefully I can achieve international honours which is a significant aspiration of mine.
“I’m really excited about the future here and believe we can continue to develop as a group and push myself to new limits under the leadership and guidance of Jockey and his coaching team.”
Bevan was identified through the Welsh Exiles programme and went onto study at Cardiff Met, while representing Wales Under-20s.
Having made his mark while training with Cardiff's first team squad, Bevan penned his first deal with the Blue and Blacks in the 2020/21 season and made a try-scoring senior debut for the club in the Rainbow Cup derby against Ospreys.
Sherratt added: “We’re pleased to keep Ellis Bevan at the Arms Park following a big season in his personal progression.
“Ellis has always been a superb professional, who is highly motivated to improve and reach as high a level in the game as he possibly can.
“When you combine that with his skill set and obvious athletic ability, there is a huge amount of potential and with consistent game time this season, he has really stepped up.
“There is still a lot of growth in his game and with further competition to come in the number nine jersey, I am sure we’ll see a lot more from Ellis.”