Warburton commits to Welsh RU

Captain Sam Warburton has become the first Wales player to sign a central contract with the Welsh Rugby Union.

The 25-year-old flanker, who skippered the British & Irish Lions to glory in Australia last summer, was due to be out of contract with the Cardiff Blues in the summer.

There were fears he would join the growing exodus out of the Welsh domestic game, but he will remain in Wales after agreeing terms on a “national contract” with the union.

In a WRU statement, Warburton said: “I am delighted to commit my future to Welsh rugby. I would like to thank the WRU for its commitment to me.

“I also want to take this opportunity to thank my agent, Derwyn Jones, who has supported and mentored me from a young age and always had my best interests at heart.”