Alex Mann has handed Cardiff Rugby a boost by signing a new long-term contract at his home club. 

The Wales international has been a standout performer in Blue & Black and has penned fresh terms, with his existing contract due to expire in the summer.

Mann has made 39 appearances since making his first team debut in 2021, and enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2023-24. 

He is now relishing the prospect of a return to Blue & Black in the weeks ahead and contributing to the club’s continued rise following a hugely impressive Six Nations.

Mann said: “I’m really happy to be able to extend my contract with Cardiff and I’m just looking forward to the future and what we can achieve as a group. 

“This is obviously my home club, I have been here since I was 16-years-old and have a lot of mates here, so it means a lot and I remain really grateful to all of the coaches and staff who have believed in me over the years and given me the opportunity. 

“This season has gone well for me and I just want to continue developing and giving my very best for the Blue & Black jersey. 

“As a group, we still have plenty to play for in the months ahead so I am really eager to get back out there with the boys and give my all.

“Representing such a famous club is a privilege, even more so at the Arms Park and I am excited for the future here. We are heading in the right direction and I am looking forward to playing my part.”

Mann, who was on the books of Cardiff City as a youngster, is another product of Aberdare RFC and came through the Cardiff Rugby pathway. He captained Wales Under-20s in two consecutive seasons before stepping up to the senior game. 

Having stepped up to make his debut against Harlequins in 2021, with the majority of the first team squad in quarantine, he cut his teeth with the Rags before progressing to the firsts. 

He is now virtually ever present, forging a reputation for his work rate and uncompromising style of play. 

Corniel van Zyl said: “We are really pleased that Alex has decided to continue his journey at Cardiff, particularly on the back of such an impressive season so far, most recently with Wales in the Six Nations where he put in some big performances.

“He has been brilliant for Cardiff during my time at the club. It is very clear that he really cares about the club, his teammates and the people we represent. 

“On the pitch, he clearly has an all in mentality. He puts his body on the line, is very versatile and has an all-round game where he can make an impact on both sides of the ball. 

“So he is a really important player for us both on and off the pitch and I’m looking forward to seeing him continue to develop at Cardiff.”