/ 23 July 1999

JENKINS SIGNS FOR CARDIFF

SOUTH AFRICA’S nemesis Neil Jenkins signed a four-year deal with Cardiff worth a reported 700000 on Monday after finally deciding to quit Pontypridd. Capped 67 times, Jenkins has secured a new lease on life for Wales under coach Graham Henry and he will link up with Wales skipper and half back partner Rob Howley at the Arms Park. “I have been a Cardiff fan since I was a boy when my father used to take me to watch them,” said Jenkins. “With the squad Cardiff have put together it is a great opportunity and fresh challenge after being with Pontypridd since I was 14.” Jenkins, the second-highest points scorer in international rugby, joins former Pontypridd team mate Martyn Williams, Wales second rower Craig Quinnell and former Richmond wing Nick Walne who have all signed for Cardiff this summer. Peter Thomas, the Cardiff chairman, hailed the arrival of Jenkins as a huge boost for the club as they prepare for next season’s European Cup. “Neil Jenkins is one of the biggest signings this club has made in many a year,” said Thomas. “It is a fantastic day for Cardiff. Neil is without doubt a world class international.”