International centres Tom Shanklin and Jamie Robinson have signed new contracts with Cardiff Blues.

Announcing the news this morning, Blues’ chief executive Robert Norster said, “This is a very important development for us at this stage. Both Tom and Jamie are generally regarded as among the brightest talents in Welsh rugby and we are all delighted that they are committing their future here at the Blues. They have both signed significant extensions to their current contracts.”

Jamie Robinson said, “I am very happy that I have settled my future with the Blues. Dai Young has the backing of all the players in what he is trying to do and I am convinced that we are on the verge of something spectacular in the next year or so. I want to be part of that and by renewing my contract I want it to be seen that I’m showing my support for Dai. We are a young squad, in fact I’m now one of the senior players at 24-years-of-age, and it is important that we set an example. A few others are on the verge of signing as well and that can only be for the good of the region and the team.”

Echoing Jamie Robinson’s sentiments, Tom Shanklin said, “An important factor in extending my contract was the undeniable fact that Cardiff Blues are an ambitious region. The team has got some great days ahead of it. We all know we have had a poor start to this season but all the signs are that we are heading in the right direction. I have always been happy here and feel very settled and now the contract issue that has cropped up recently can be put to one side.”