Wales lock signs new Cardiff Rugby deal as he's given 'renewed hunger'

Wales international Rory Thornton has put pen to paper on a new long-term deal with Cardiff Rugby.

The 6ft 8in lock moved to Arms Park during the 2018/19 season and has gone on to make 82 appearances for the region. He has enjoyed an impressive season for Matt Sherratt's side, forming a commanding presence at the lineout and battling back from a calf injury he suffered in January.

Thornton - who won his only Wales cap to date back in 2017 having captained the U20s side - will now compete with the likes of Teddy Williams, Seb Davies and Ben Donnell for a starting spot in the second row next season, having committed his future to the club.

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“Moving to Cardiff and living here has been absolutely amazing - I love the city," said the 29-year-old. "So I am really happy to sign a new deal. From a personal perspective, staying at Cardiff and continuing to build on the game time and performances I have enjoyed this year was the best option.

“The fixtures in the European Champions Cup, as well as the Welsh derbies, with the crowds and atmospheres around them was incredible and has given me a renewed hunger to keep pushing and driving on to achieve," he added. “I am also really excited about the make up of the club next season with the exciting young players who have come through this year adding to the group and continuing to grow.

“The coaching set-up that Jockey has put together is also an exciting one and I am looking forward to continuing learning and developing on a personal and collective level.”

After Thornton's new deal was confirmed, Sherratt said: “Rory has made real improvements across his all round game this season, which we are all really pleased with.

“He is an excellent set-piece forward, who is offering more and more around the pitch. With Rory, Seb, Teddy and Ben we have a good base to build on as we move towards 2023-24.”

Thornton follows the likes of James Botham, Ellis Bevan, Harri Millard and Rhys Litterick in signing a new deal with the region, while Sherratt has also brought in new signings including Callum Sheedy, Ed Byrne and Danny Southworth ahead of next season.