Cardiff Rugby have bolstered their pack with the season-long loan signing of Leicester Tigers powerhouse Tom Manz.
The second-row arrived at the Arms Park this week ahead of the 2026-27 campaign and provides further strength and depth to boiler house.
Standing at 6ft 8ins, and tipping the scales at 18 st 10lbs, Manz brings a sizeable presence to the pack and will compete with the likes of Josh McNally, George Nott, Semesi Paea, Rory Thornon and Teddy Williams for a match-day spot.
Cardiff Rugby head coach, Corniel van Zyl, said: “We are really pleased that Tom has joined Cardiff Rugby for the season ahead. He is a big, physical player that will strengthen our squad.
“We are looking forward to what he can add to the mix. He has trained well since arriving from Leicester so hopefully he can bring that on the pitch for the club in a big year.
“It’s also a good opportunity for Tom to grow his game in a different environment and competition, while helping us. We are very grateful to Leicester Tigers for facilitating this move.”
Manz came through the pathway at Leicester and made his first team debut in 2022. He spent three years at Loughborough University and has enjoyed regular gametime with Nottingham before earning a full-time senior contract at Welford Road in 2024.
The former England U20s international made 10 first team appearances for the Tigers last season, taking his tally to 21.
Speaking of his move to Cardiff, Manz said: “I have spent a long-time at Leicester, coming through the academy and enjoying time at Loughborough and Nottingham as I was coming through, so this is a great opportunity for me.
“I jumped at the chance of playing for another club with a ridiculous history. So many great players have been at the club and I am looking forward to putting my best forward to hopefully get some opportunities in the blue and black jersey.
“I like to think I can bring some physicality, using my size to provide so big carries and collisions, while being a real threat at the lineout.
“I want to bring as much impact as I can for the club. It’s an absolute privilege to be here and I’m determined to take every opportunity I get.”
Cardiff Rugby contract announcements are sponsored by DragonBet. GambleAware | 18+