The Wales U20s winger had been linked with a move to La Rochelle – with former Ireland fly-half Ronan O’Gara an admirer
Tom Bowen has signed a new deal with Cardiff Rugby(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd)
Wales U20s winger Tom Bowen has committed his future to Cardiff after penning a new long-term deal to stay at the Arms Park.
The news comes as a major boost to the Blue and Blacks, with the 19-year-old having been linked with a move to French giants La Rochelle. However, despite that interest from the Top 14 outfit – who are coached by former Ireland fly-half Ronan O’Gara – Bowen has decided to stay in Wales.
After making his debut last season under Matt Sherratt, Bowen has established himself in Cardiff’s side in the current campaign – grabbing a hat-trick against Munster back in October.
The following week, he scored twice against Connacht.
In total, he has crossed for 10 tries in his 14 appearances for Cardiff.
He also dotted down twice for Wales U20s in their recent Six Nations campaign.
Speaking about his new senior contract, Bowen said: “I’m really grateful to be able to re-sign with my home club. I have enjoyed every moment so far and I’m looking forward to what the future brings at Cardiff.
“Playing for this team means a huge amount to me as someone who has come through the pathway and academy, and the feeling you get from playing in the famous blue and black jersey never gets old.
“The Arms Park is also a special place to play and that support is something which motivates me to keep pushing on.
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“As an environment, I imagine Cardiff is very hard to beat. I have high quality players all around me, people I can keep learning from, and competing with, which will only continue my development.
“I’m really happy to be staying and I’m looking forward to getting back on the pitch with this group.”
Bowen, the son of former Scarlets fly-half Gareth, came through the Cardiff academy before heading to Clifton College. During his time there, he was also involved with Bristol Bears.
He returned to Cardiff in 2024 – quickly breaking through after Wales attack coach Sherratt handed him opportunities in the Challenge Cup.
“We’re really pleased that Tom is staying at Cardiff. He is a young, exciting player who is a big part of our future,” said Cardiff coach Corniel van Zyl.
“His point of difference is obviously his finishing. He has the ability to finish opportunities, which not many other players could.
“He is also a great person, who is eager to learn and improve. The key thing for Tom now, is continuing to develop his all-round game as a wing, on the back of some impressive games for us and a really good Six Nations with Wales U20s.”
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