Royal Air Force rugby union star Josh McNally signs for Cardiff Rugby

Royal Air Force rugby union star Sergeant Josh McNally has signed for United Rugby Championship side Cardiff Rugby.

Sgt McNally joins the Welsh outfit after he departed from Bath Rugby earlier this year after five seasons. 

Speaking to Cardiff Rugby, the 33-year-old RAF technician said that he's "thankful" for the opportunity and "can't wait" to get involved with the team.

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He said: "I'm really thankful for the opportunity to join Cardiff, and can't wait to get involved. Cardiff has such a great history, and a city that is fully behind the club.

"Having spent part of my career at London Welsh, and all my wife's family originating in Wales, I have always been in awe of the passion for rugby in Wales, and I can't wait to immerse myself in the capital.

"After talking with Jockey, and Corniel, the opportunity immediately excited me. The brand of rugby Cardiff are starting to play, and the squad being assembled, is something I can't wait to contribute to.

"I would like to thank the Royal Air Force for allowing me the opportunity to come here. They have been fully supportive my entire career, and I wouldn't be here without them.”

Cardiff Rugby head coach Matt Sherratt added: "We are absolutely delighted to bring someone of Josh's quality to the Arms Park both in terms of his playing ability and as a leader around our environment.

"With so many senior figures moving on or retiring in recent years, it was really important to bring in players with experience and leadership ability from top environments and I believe we have managed to do that.

"Josh has been a key figure on and off the pitch during the past five seasons at Bath and his former coaches and teammates cannot speak highly enough of him.

"He is a big second-row, who brings a physical presence but he is also a good all-round athlete, is strong technically and a real lineout tactician.

"He will bring undoubted quality to us on the pitch and be an important figure in helping some of our younger players."

Sgt McNally's first test with his new club will be in a pre-season friendly clash with his former club Bath Rugby on 6 September.