Cardiff Rugby: Head coach Matt Sherratt hopes players stay after WRU takeover

Wales wing Josh Adams signalled his intentions this week by signing a new two-year deal.

“To keep someone who is a British and Irish Lion and 60 caps was a statement signing for the club,” said Sherratt.

“After the past 10 days, it reaffirms we’re here to stay.”

Adams says Cardiff’s plight did not change his mind on staying.

“My contract was signed before all that happened (administration and WRU takeover) anyway,” said Adams.

“It was about signing and transferring the contract over, so there was nothing to ponder from my end.”

Adams says the extent of the news of Cardiff’s financial plight surprised the squad.

“It was shock news when I first heard but the group dealt with it well,” said Adams.

“The speed in which from start to finish, from players finding out the news to being taken over, was very quick.

“I have to say how well the WRU and Cardiff boards worked to get that done and put any uncertainty or doubts in players’ minds to bed.

“They have to have a tap on the back for their diligence and prioritising players and staff.”

Adams was one of four senior players, alongside club captain Liam Belcher and Welsh Rugby Players Association (WRPA) representatives Corey Domachowski and Callum Sheedy who helped relay messages to fellow players.

“It hasn’t changed anything in our day-to-day stuff and we have cracked on with things,” said Adams.

“From the outside, teams could view it as something that can galvanise the group.

“We know our strength within the group. We are close-knit and that was proved with the way we dealt with the situation.”