James Down Signs New Contract

Lock James Down becomes the latest player to sign a contract extension with the Cardiff Blues, joining Alex Cuthbert, Scott Andrews and Josh Navidi.

Speaking of the news, Down told CardiffBlues.com,

“It was an easy decision to sign again with the Blues. It's my hometown region. I've played all my rugby here and come through the Academy system, so I always wanted to stay.

It’s thought the former Llantwit fadre player has put pen to paper on a three year deal, becoming the third player in a week to sign a contract extension. Like the other re-signees, Down cited the promising future of the region and the exciting young talent coming through.

Prop Scott Andrews signed a new 2-year deal saying,

“I have been here since I was sixteen and didn't want to look elsewhere as I am happy at the Blues. We have a lot of young boys mixed with some top internationals who are contracted for the next few years, so slowly we are producing a good core. It will be exciting to see it progress over the next few years.”

There was more great news, with this season’s star performer, Josh Navidi, committing to the region for a further 3 years. Navidi, who has recently become captain of the Blues in the absence of Andries Pretorius, was delighted to re-sign with the region,

"I'm happy with my form at the Blues and feel my playing has been consistent, but I can always keep pushing myself to see how I can improve as a player.”

He added,

"I played under 20's two years ago including the Junior World Cup in Japan and Argentina when Phil Davies was the coach. He is a very constructive person to have in charge. He is always pushing the players and keeping us positive in the way we play. That is as true now as when he used to coach me at U20 level. He encourages us and I enjoy playing under him as a coach. Hopefully this next season will see us push forward as a team and I'm sure he will bring out the best in us."

They all follow in the footspteps of Wales’ latest superstar Alex Cuthbert, who also committed himself to a further 3 seasons at the Arms Park.

"I did have some good offers from other clubs but I wanted to stay with the Blues. I've certainly seen the progress on the pitch, although we may not be getting the results right now, we are just losing by narrow margins and you can tell it's coming.

I had a lot of decisions to make but I'm glad I've got it sorted and this is the place I want to be to take my rugby career forward. I'm glad it's all sorted now,"