Cardiff sign versatile back-five forward Ben Donnell from Gloucester

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Ben Donnell made more than 50 London Irish appearances before their demise led him to join Gloucester

Cardiff have signed versatile back-five forward Ben Donnell from Gloucester with immediate effect.

The 23-year-old has played in every lock and back row position and Cardiff boss Matt Sherratt says Donnell "really suits" their game.

He is 6ft 5/6ins, he's quick, likes to keep the ball moving and is a really good athlete," said Sherratt.

Donnell feels his "attributes and views on playing an attacking, fun" rugby style "fully align" with Sherratt's.

He added: "I'm hoping I can add to a strong squad, which has so much further potential, with my ability to bring some dominance in collisions with some soft ball-playing skills, while continuing my own development and improvement.

"Ultimately every player wants to win trophies and I believe Cardiff are beginning an exciting journey towards that."

Donnell is a former England Under-18s and 20s international.