Corniel van Zyl has signed a new long-term deal to become head coach of Cardiff Rugby.
The South African joined the Blue & Blacks as a forwards coach in 2024 and stepped up following the departure of Matt Sherratt to Wales.
Under van Zyl’s leadership, Cardiff have enjoyed an 89 per cent win rate at the Arms Park, seen the continued development of a new group of players and stand on the verge of the BKT United Rugby Championship play-offs.
He has now been given the head coach role on a permanent basis and is relishing the challenge ahead.
An honour and privilege
He said: “It is such an honour and privilege to take the lead at Cardiff as we enter our 150th season. It is a club full of history and with a very exciting future ahead.
“I am very thankful for the opportunity and challenge that lies ahead and grateful to Jamie and the board for their backing.
“The mission is very simple – to improve every aspect of Cardiff Rugby. From all departments, resources, staff and players, we want to continuing growing, focusing on the finer details and margins to ensure we keep progressing in the right direction.
“We talk a lot about fight, enjoyment and growth, and ultimately, we want to keep building on those behaviours. We will keep on fighting, endeavour to play an enjoyable brand of rugby and grow from match to match and season to season.
“On a personal level, I absolutely love the club. It is an environment with so many people – staff, players, sponsors and supporters – that care deeply about the badge. That is my motivation to keep driving us forward.
“My family are very settled here in Cardiff. It is a family-focused club within an amazing city and country. We are very pleased to be staying long-term with this opportunity and are excited by the future at the Arms Park.”
The 47-year-old enjoyed an illustrious playing career, making more than 150 appearances for Benetton and qualifying on residency to represent Italy.
Since retiring in 2015, van Zyl has amassed a wealth of experience with stints as forwards coach at Free State Cheetahs, London Irish and Ealing Trailfinders.
Having impressed with his coaching ability, leadership and attention to detail throughout the 2025-26 season to date, he has been given the reins long-term.
Building for the future
Cardiff Rugby Managing Director, Jamie Muir said: “We are really pleased to formally appoint Corniel as our new head coach on a long-term basis.
“We have built a strong working relationship this season and I have seen at first-hand the standards he brings and drives every day.
“It is a significant appointment for the club and one that has the full backing of myself and the board. We believe Corniel is the right person to lead our rugby programme and to continue strengthening every aspect of our high-performance environment.
“We didn’t want to rush into a decision when Matt Sherratt departed but we have all been so impressed with Corniel. He brings a different edge to the club, and a real competitive mindset combined with calm leadership.
“We are excited about the direction we are heading and are confident that with the guidance and leadership from Corniel and his staff, we can continue building a squad and culture our supporters can be proud of.
“I’d like to thank Corniel and the wider coaching group for their commitment and hard work through what has been a challenging but ultimately encouraging season for the club.
“This appointment is about long-term progress, stability and ambition, and we are looking forward to what comes next, both in the remainder of this season – with plenty to play for – and beyond.”
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