George Nott has been rewarded for an impressive first season at the Arms Park with a new deal to remain in Blue & Black.

The second-row arrived in the Welsh capital from the Dragons last summer and has made a significant impact.

Nott has made 19 appearances, scoring a crucial European Challenge Cup try against Ulster, and impressing with his athleticism, work-rate and lineout prowess.

He has now agreed to extend his stay in Cardiff and he will continue to compete with the likes of Josh McNally, Teddy Williams and Rory Thornton, with the club active in the market for further resources.

Nott said: “I’m very pleased to be staying at Cardiff and hope I can bring a positive impact both on and off the pitch again next season.

“It is a great club with a group that is growing and a supporter base that is right behind us. The Arms Park is a brilliant place to play and it’s a privilege to pull on the jersey each and every time.

“I’m very grateful to Corniel for giving me this opportunity and I am excited to see what we can achieve next season and look forward to playing my part.

“I’d also like to thank everyone at the club and its supporters for making me feel so welcome since moving here.”

The Bodelwyddan-born lock came through the Sale Sharks academy system and is a former England Junior World Cup winner.

He enjoyed an impressive stint at London Irish, where he first worked with Corniel van Zyl, before joining the Dragons in 2022.

Van Zyl has enjoyed having the 6ft 6in, 18 stone second-row at his disposal once again and believes he has an important role to play.

The Cardiff Rugby head coach said: “From working previously with George, I knew exactly what to expect and it has been great to reconnect with him.

“He is a very passionate and diligent person, who brings a balanced, all-round game. He is tough, he puts his body on the line and digs in, while he is also competitive and athletic.

“He has had some niggles this year but he pulled through for the team and played a lot of rugby, performing well.

“Off the pitch, George is also a really good person. He is involved with a lot of charitable work, he is always available to help people and that is a great role model and mentor for us to have in the environment, passing on experience.

‘We are excited to keep George and look forward to seeing how he can grow his game further.”