Cardiff Rugby have made Namibian centre Le Roux Malan their first signing for next season, joining from South African side the Sharks.

Malan has played eight times for Cardiff’s United Rugby Championship, mainly in the centre, but he can also play on the wing.

The 27-year-old was born in Namibia and came through the Sharks academy before signing for Major League Rugby side the New England Free Jacks in 2022.

Malan won three consecutive Major League Rugby (MLR) titles, and he also had a stint in New Zealand with Hawke’s Bay.

Capped internationally for Namibia, Cardiff head coach Corniel van Zyl believes that Malan can add “a combination of his natural size and athleticism with a high skill set.”

“We are delighted to bring Le Roux to the Arms Park next season,” Van Zyl said.

“He has really improved his all-round game over the last few seasons – he has put in some impressive performances for the Sharks since joining them in November and stood out against us a few weeks ago.

“It’s an area where we needed some more strength in depth. He’s a big, physical boy, who has played international rugby and will push the standards, while he’s versatile enough to play 13, 12 and wing if needed.

“From watching him closely and speaking to people in South Africa, his work-rate is one of his biggest strengths, he has brilliant ball skills, he can finish and he can be physical.”

Malan had the option of to remain in South Africa but chose to join Cardiff instead.

“I’m really looking forward to joining Cardiff,” Malan said.

“I have always wanted to play my rugby abroad, especially in the UK so I am excited for the opportunity to learn a new style. I’m also someone who really values different cultures and embracing it, so I can’t wait to meet the Welsh people and form part of the club.

“From what I have heard the people are extremely humble, hard-working and friendly and those are qualities that I value and try to carry in my life.

“Also knowing the strong history of the club, seeing the upward trend in the last couple of years and hearing about the project, I am so excited to play my part.

“The project that Corniel (van Zyl) laid out is something that excites me. It is something I feel I can add value to, but I also believe I can learn and grow as a player and a human as well.

“Playing at the Arms Park is going to be very cool. It is such an historical ground and I can’t wait to represent the club.

“Cardiff is also a sports mad city, that’s something I am passionate about and looking forward to experiencing, I’ve also visited in the past and it is really beautiful place.

“So I’m just excited for this as an opportunity and to have such a life experience. I can’t wait to meet the boys, all the staff and of course the supporters. I’m so excited to get stuck in.”

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