Getting to Grips with the 20 Out of Contract

Last month, Walesonline reported that there were 20 players out of contract with the Cardiff Blues at the end of the year, prompting fears from fans that the region are on the verge of a player meltdown, but is that really the case?

It’s been widely discussed since the WalesOnline article was released, as to how many of those 20 will need re-signing, so theArmsPark.co.uk has put together a list of the 20 players thought to be those out of contract.

(May I just reiterate that these are the players thought to be out of contract, one or two may be incorrect or missing.)

Firstly, let’s start with those players on short term deal, who cost the region very little, and are unlikely to have their contract renewed.  Firstly, the three new front row signings who joined on short term deals a week after Gavin Henson; Jamie Corsi, Ryan Tyrrell and Marc Breeze. Of this trio, Tyrrell may prove to be the only player with a realistic change of a renewed deal, given the regions lack of depth at hooker. Corsi and Breeze are unlikely to be kept, however this may depend on the contract situation of other players. In this section we also see Nathan Trevett, Ryan Harford and Gareth Davies, who have been promoted to regional duty to help cover World Cup absentees.

Next, we move to those likely to retire at the end of the season; Ben Blair, Tao’ Felise, Maama Molitika, Xavier Rush, Paul Tito, Deiniol Jones and Martyn Williams.  Despite being a list of quality players, who indeed may yet get another year or two, these make up a hefty contribution to the wage bill and will certainly help alleviate some of the financial burden on the Blues.

Then penultimate bracket is made up of players in and around the around the fringes of the squad. These include former internationals and players who are likely to be offered new deals, but wouldn’t be a disaster if they weren’t. The likes of Dan Parks, Gavin Evans, Richard Mustoe and Ceri Sweeney are unlikely to be high in demand, but, where possible, are likely to be kept by the region as they provide solid cover for first choice players.

The final trio consists of three players who are all very likely to be offered new long term deals. These are the ones we as fans would be disappointed to see leave. Heading the list is Wales and Lions prop Gethin Jenkins. The Llantrisant-born 30 year old is held in great esteem all over the world, and is undoubtedly one of the real jewels in Cardiff’s crown. He has already spoken about the possibility of moving to France; however the Blues remain confident he will stay put.

Then there’s Casey Laulala, one of the fan favourites and a glorius player to watch. He has to ability to unlock a defence and has been a potent weapon in the Blues backline since arriving three years ago. Unfortunately, it looks as though Laulala will be leaving for France. This is of course based on rumours, but there seems to be significant weight behind them.

And finally, there’s Gavin Henson, who signed an 8-month deal with the region but has yet to make his debut. His re-signing will come down to his performances on the pitch – when they finally arrive – but Peter Thomas has made it very clear that he sees Henson seeing out his career at the Cardiff City Stadium.

So let’s put this into context. Of the 20 players report out of contract, two are big name players who, admittedly, would be a huge loss. One is a player trying to rebuild his career and has yet to play a game since signing. Four are good players who don’t cost the region too hefty a’some, and won’t be in great demand, six are likely to retire, or get new short term deals. And six are club level players who will return to the Premiership, but are ready for regional call ups if necessary.

Given it is a World Cup year, the Blues squad was always going to be swollen with players who would cover those missing. The squad was always going to get smaller.

And when some of those older players do leave, the Blues will be able to slash a significant amount off their playing budget, some of which can be reinvested ahead of next season.

So quite on the contrary to the scare mongering, it appears the squad should in fact be in a far healthier position than it currently is.

The 20 players thought to be out of contract.

Jamie Corsi, Ryan Tyrrell, Nathan Trevett, Ryan Harford, Gareth Davies, Marc Breeze

Maama Molitika, Ben Blair, Tao’ Felise, Martyn Williams, Xavier Rush, Paul Tito, Deiniol Jones

Dan Parks, Gavin Evans, Ceri Sweeney, Richard Mustoe,

Gethin Jenkins, Casey Laulala, Gavin Henson