George Nott has thrown himself fully into life at Cardiff Rugby, declaring he’s “100% in” as he aims to bring leadership, energy, and a set-piece edge to a tight-knit squad during an intense pre-season.

Nott followed Taine Basham to Cardiff from Dragons RFC and like his teammate is already enjoying his new environment as he prepares for the 2025/26 campaign.

“It’s been great,” said Nott. “They’re a really welcoming bunch of lads. I know a lot of them already, just being a stone’s throw down the road. I’ve really enjoyed it.

“It’s been tough, but it always is. You’re never at ease in pre-season, but it’s enjoyable too.

“We’re all in the same boat, so that brings us together the harder it is.”

Experience and leadership

Nott, brings a wealth of experience from the BKT United Rugby Championship and Gallagher Prem, and is keen to have an impact both on and off the pitch at his new Club. 

“First and foremost, I want to make Cardiff a better place. I want to add to it all on and off the pitch.

“I think it’s really important to invest in a club. It’s something I’ve always tried to do when I joined a club. I’m 100% in and I’m looking forward to having an impact.”

Renowned for his set-piece prowess, the 29-year-old is aiming to bring leadership and quality to Cardiff’s pack.

“On the field, I really value set-piece. I love line-outs. I think it’s a huge part of the game.

“It’s an area I feel I can really add to the team. I bring a lot of work rate and I like to think I get the best out of the players around me, especially young lads.

“At 29, I’m probably on the other side of my career now. Especially looking around the club, there’s a lot of young boys, so I want to help make them better along the way.”

Despite being new to the squad, Nott has been impressed by the sense of unity within the Cardiff camp.

“It’s a real tight-knit group, as you’d expect with a club like Cardiff. It’s not cliquey and I don’t want to say a family, but it’s one big group, just all one big togetherness.”

Making a new home at Cardiff Arms Park

Having faced Cardiff as an opponent numerous times, Nott is now excited to represent the Blue and Blacks on the other side of the rivalry.

“I’ve always had a real tough time here and I’m quite looking forward to putting the record straight because we’ve really struggled coming here,” he added.

“It’s an honour thing and that’s credit to not just the team, but the club as a whole, the supporters, the atmosphere that’s created on game day.

“We haven’t done too well the last few years here, so I’m looking forward to being on the other side and making it a tough place to come.

Looking ahead, Nott is fully focused on contributing to Cardiff’s ambitions for the new season.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given here. I’m going to take it with both hands and I look forward to getting stuck in and learning more about the club along the way.”

Fixtures for the 2025-26 URC campaign are out now and you can check them out here. The best way to watch Cardiff is with a Season Membership, which can be purchased below.