Here are your rugby evening headlines for Tuesday 7 May.
Australia door open for Williams as Young ruled out for rest of season
Cardiff have confirmed the extent of Thomas Young’s injury, while opening the door for Tomos Williams to still tour with Wales this summer.
Openside flanker Young went off in Cardiff’s last match against Edinburgh, with head coach Matt Sherratt confirming he would miss the club’s remaining three matches.
Gloucester-bound scrum-half Williams and No. 8 Taulupe Faletau will also play no further part in the remainder of the season – although the former could still tour Australia in July.
When the scrum-half was ruled out with ankle ligament damage, it was doubtful if Williams would travel with Wales at the end of a lengthy World Cup season. However, with Wales in need of someone to nail down the jersey and Williams expected to be back fit in June, it now seems more likely than not that Gatland will take him.
“They’re all not going to play again this season,” said Cardiff coach Matt Sherratt. “Tomos was ankle ligaments so I think he should be fit just after the season finishes.
“No real timeline on Toby but hopefully he’ll be fit for part of pre-season ahead of next season. Thomas Young ruptured his bicep so he’ll miss the rest of the season as well but he’ll be back for pre-season.”
Welsh back-rower released by English club
Welsh back-rower Dan Thomas is one of 17 players leaving Bristol at the end of the season.
The 30-year-old has made 144 appearances for the Bears and is one of the standout names to be released. His departure follows the already confirmed exits of Wales fly-half Callum Sheedy, who is joining Cardiff, as well as the likes of Piers O’Conor, Kyle Sinckler and Magnus Bradbury.
Thomas, who had been linked to Cardiff earlier in the season and has previously spent some time on loan with the Scarlets, will bid farewell to Ashton Gate after Bristol’s final home game of the season against Saracens this weekend.
Speaking about the numerous departures, Director of rugby Pat Lam said: “This time of the year is always difficult as we say farewell to some great people who have contributed significantly to the club, on and off the field, throughout their time with the Bears.
“We thank them for their hard work and commitment to our vision, and they can all be very proud of their efforts and achievements here. Once a Bear, always a Bear.”
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