The number of new signings arriving at the Arms Park this summer has decreased as Franco van der Merwe has been released by Cardiff Blues before even arriving in Wales.
Financial constraints have seen Wales’ capital region allow the Springbok second row the opportunity to look elsewhere for a club ahead of the 2017/18 season, with Aviva Premiership new boys London Irish set to announce his signing shortly.
This will be subject to ratification from the Rugby Football Union, potentially creating an awkward situation for the Blues, who will still have to honour the former Ulster player’s contract if he does not complete a move across the border.
Other signings already announced by the club, Jack Roberts and Damian Welch, have reported for pre-season and linked up with their new team-mates.
Cardiff Blues head coach Danny Wilson had told the club’s official website that “Franco is a quality player, who will bring physicality and experience to the pack. He’s been a standout leader and performer for Ulster over the last two seasons.”
“The average age of our pack is currently just 25 and part of Franco’s role will be to help develop our younger forwards whilst bringing physicality and a lineout presence on game day.”
However, after posting losses of £1.4m in their latest financial reports, budgets have been cut at the Arms Park and releasing van der Merwe will ease the burden in the short-term.
Cardiff’s second row contingent now consists of Welch, James Down and George Earle, with Macauley Cook and Josh Turnbull both offering cover from the back row.
There is also now a big opportunity for youngsters Seb Davies and Callum Bradbury to step up and stake a claim for a first team spot.
Highly rated 21-year-old Davies won his first Wales cap over the summer, while Callum Bradbury featured for the U20s at the Junior World Championship, leaving Danny Wilson the opportunity to look on the bright side of losing Franco van der Merwe.