Cardiff Blues can confirm that Wales international hooker Thomas Rhys Thomas has extended his contract with the region.
The new deal will ensure that Thomas, who has been one of the most consistent performers with the Blues this season, will remain part of a formidable front row for the foreseeable future. The former Mountain Ash Comprehensive and Neath College pupil started his career as a tight-head prop with Abercynon Youth before switching to Hooker and joining Newport RFC.
The 25 year old signed for the Blues from Newport in 2003/04 following the regionalisation of the game in Wales. His tireless work around the field and his commitment caught the eye of Welsh selectors and was soon rewarded. He was called up to the Welsh squad for the 2005 Autumn Internationals and went on to win his first cap as a substitute against New Zealand in November. Thomas has played 71 times for the Cardiff Blues and has quickly established himself as one of the leading hookers in the game.
Bradley Davies has also extended his contract after some impressive performances for the region this season. He made his debut for the Cardiff Blues in a friendly match against Pontypridd in 2005/06 season before going on to play in matches against Edinburgh and Munster.
The 6ft 5 inch second row forward is a product of the Blues Academy in Treforest and has used his 18st 9lbs bulk to great effect with some barnstorming runs in his 18 matches for the region. Having captained the Wales Under 19 side to the Grand Slam in 2006, the Blues lock made his first starts at Under 20 level for Wales earlier this season, against Italy in Piacenza.
Speaking of the signings Director of Coaching, David Young said:
Its great news for the region that both Rhys and Bradley have decided to extend their contracts with the Blues.
Rhys has established himself as one of the best hookers around and has matured greatly over the past two seasons.
Bradley is only 20 years old and has come through our Academy system but he has impressed us in training and when he has been given the opportunity to play at regional level he has really stepped up to the mark.