Ethan Lewis returns to Cardiff on short-term loan

Cardiff Rugby have secured the return of hooker Ethan Lewis on a short-term loan from Ospreys.

The loan agreement runs until the end of January, providing Cardiff with additional front-row strength while their regular hooker is sidelined.

Lewis has previously made around 60 appearances for Cardiff, having come through the club’s pathway at Arms Park. He later moved to Saracens (initially on loan during the 2020-21 season) before joining the Ospreys ahead of the 2023 season.

With current hooker Liam Belcher injured, Lewis is expected to compete for game time alongside existing options such as Daf Hughes and Evan Lloyd, offering experience and familiar qualities to the squad.

Cardiff’s coaching staff welcomed Lewis back, highlighting that his previous time at the club and his experience make him well-suited for the temporary cover.

“We are really pleased to bring in a player of Ethan’s quality during what is a busy and important time of the year.

“With the injury to Liam Belcher, it was important that we added some strength at hooker and while we expect him back in a couple of weeks, we needed that extra cover.

“Ethan is obviously a player the club knows well and I know it means a lot to him as well. He has plenty of experience now, does the basics very well and suits the style we play.

“He has settled back in quickly and we are grateful to the Ospreys for allowing this loan.”