Cardiff Rugby are pleased to confirm Alun Lawrence has agreed a new long-term contract to remain at the Arms Park.
The abrasive back-row forward returned to the club in November following the demise of Jersey Reds, and has added five appearances to his tally, including an impressive try-scoring appearance in last week’s victory over Hollywoodbets Sharks.
Lawrence’s short-term deal was due to expire at the end of the season, but he has now put pen to paper to remain at his home club.
He said: “It means a huge amount to me to sign this new deal with Cardiff and I am enormously grateful to Matt Sherratt and the club for the opportunity they have given me.
“When Jersey went into administration, it was obviously a really difficult time but they gave me a lifeline and the opportunity to remain in the game I love.
“I am determined to repay the faith they showed in me not only then, but with this new contract to stay at a club, which is very dear to me as my home club and the one I supported as a kid.
“It has been a challenging season but I think everyone can see the direction we are heading and the progress made. We have a young and hungry group and I am excited to see how we can develop and become increasingly competitive during seasons to come.”
Across his two stints at the club, Lawrence has now made 28 first team appearances, including three tries.
He will compete with the likes of Taulupe Faletau and Mackenzie Martin for the number eight jersey at Cardiff Arms Park, and has the ability to play across the back-row and in the second-row.
Matt Sherratt added: “We’re really pleased to keep Alun at the club and have been impressed by him since his return from Jersey.
"He is a player who left to get more playing opportunities and won a Championship title, went through some adversity and returned with a real appetite and drive to succeed.
“What you see with Alun on the pitch is what you get all week, he is extremely hard working, diligent and knows his role inside out.
“He has shown a glimpse of his capabilities in recent weeks with some quality performances and we are delighted to keep him within our back-row resources and look forward to seeing how he continues to develop.”