Cardiff Blues can confirm that second row forward Rob Sidoli will be leaving the Blues at the end of the season to join Guinness Premiership outfit Bristol.
Speaking of the announcement, Cardiff Blues Chief Executive Robert Norster said,
We would like to thank Rob for all his services to the Cardiff Blues since joining us in 2004.
We would also like to wish Rob every success with Bristol and understand his desire to play rugby in a new environment. With Scott Morgan moving up to the second row next season, competition for the locking berths like all other areas of our team will remain intense
Rob explained why he'd decided to move to Bristol:
"The challenge of playing in the Guinness Premiership is something that really appeals to me as I've been playing in the Magners League for about 10 years now."
"I've been looking for a new challenge and I believe Bristol is a big club which is going to go on and achieve huge things in the next few years and I really want to be part of that."
Cardiff Blues have also agreed for utility back Nick Macleod to be released from contract at the end of the season to join the Sale Sharks. Macleod who has played outside half, inside centre and full back for the Blues came through the youth system at the Arms Park.
Speaking of the announcement Cardiff Blues Chief Executive Robert Norster said;
We would like to thank Nick for his commitment and loyal service to the Cardiff Blues and we all wish him every success in this new chapter of his career.