ANSCOMBE SIGNS NEW DEAL TO STAY ON IN WALES

GARETH Anscombe is staying in Welsh rugby having signed a new National Dual Contract with Cardiff Blues and the WRU.

Negotiations over a fresh deal have been going on for a number of months, but now it’s been confirmed that he will be remaining at the Arms Park

The Kiwi-born outside-half, who was named in Wales’ summer tour squad earlier this week, arrived at the Blues from New Zealand in the autumn of 2014.

He has made 43 appearances for the region, scoring 337 points, while he has won nine caps for Wales, who he qualifies for through his mother, figuring at both fly-half and fullback.

The new NDC announcement comes as a belated birthday present for the former Super Rugby winner, who turned 26 earlier this week.

“It’s pleasing to recommit to Wales and Cardiff Blues, who are a region I very much want to be a part of,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to the summer tour, but I’m only at the start of my international career and hopefully I can contribute a lot more in the years to come.

“There’s a lot more to do before that and it’s very important for me that Cardiff Blues finish the season well and next year push into the top six and play at a consistent high level.

“We’ve shown glimpses of our potential this season and are building a squad which is capable of getting there. The last few weeks have gone well.”