Lopeti Timani links up with the first-team squad next week and he is ready to do whatever it takes to help Cardiff in the season ahead.
The physically imposing forward arrived in Cardiff earlier this month and has undertaken a phased transition into full training.
He has spent the last two weeks undertaking conditioning work and settling into his new Whitchurch home but next week training shifts a gear and Timani cannot wait.
He said: “We’ve been here for two weeks now and we’re enjoying it. We find it easy to get around and we’re just looking forward to the rest of the year and the season.
“I’ve been watching training this last week and it looks like the players have been working really hard. I can’t wait to do what I can to help with the young players and I can learn at the same time.
“I’ll do whatever I can to help around the field from my experience and I’m just looking forward to getting involved and getting to know the boys.
“I’ve been doing a bit of running and stuff with the physio but then next week I start training full time. I’m excited and looking forward to getting involved with the rest of the players.
“What do I bring into the team? Obviously I will bring my strength. If I can carry the ball, tackle around the ruck but I will give everything I can to what benefits the team.
“I’m looking forward to getting involved, starting training and then getting the opportunity to play and represent the club.”
Timani arrived in Wales after spending the summer with Tonga, who he first represented last autumn after becoming the first player to switch alliance under the new World Rugby eligibility laws. He previously won 12 Test caps for Australia.
He adds to a rich history of Tongan influence at Cardiff Arms Park with Maama Molitika and Taufa’ao Filise earning legendary status and current teammates Willis Halaholo and Taulupe Faletau also of Tongan descent.
Timani continued: “Growing up, I heard about their names and finally I am here where they used to play. Hopefully I can follow in their footsteps in terms of what they achieved at the club and I’m looking forward to meeting them in person.
“I’ve played against Toby one or two times. Him and Willis are great players, I’ve heard they’re great blokes and I’m looking forward to playing with them and spending a bit of time together on and off the field.”
The second-row now has his sights set on the first game of the season and is also looking forward to his first taste of the famous Cardiff Arms Park atmosphere having previously played for the Wallabies at the Principality Stadium.
He added: “Back in 2016-17, it was my first tour with Australia. It was amazing, our first game was here against Wales and it was crazy with the crowd, the atmosphere was amazing and I’m looking forward to hopefully being involved in the first game.”
Cardiff kick-off their United Rugby Championship season at home to Munster on Friday, September 16 (7.35pm). Tickets are available now by clicking here.