Gareth Thomas has been named in Wales' rugby league squad

Welsh rugby star Gareth Thomas is to stay at the Crusaders for one more season before retiring.

The former British and Irish Lions and Welsh rugby union captain has sealed an option to extend his deal to the end of the 2011 season.

The 36-year-old switched rugby codes in March and initially joined the Welsh Super League club on a six-month deal.

He said: "I'm glad my contract has been sorted and I have committed to Crusaders for another year."

Thomas has made 13 appearances since his code switch from Cardiff Blues, but has been sidelined with a groin injury for the last eight weeks.

He underwent surgery on Monday and expects to be fit to make his international rugby return playing for Iestyn Harris's Wales national team during their autumn campaign that includes the European Cup.

I am looking forward to next year, especially getting a full pre-season under my belt instead of coming into things late Gareth Thomas

"It has been a frustrating end to the season with the injury and stuff but I am really committed to what is going on here," he said.

"I want this club to be successful and I am a great believer that sometimes players should give something back to the game.

"The club have been great to me and hopefully we can build on this year's success next season and we can bring in some new players as well as bring the talent and youngsters through.

"I've always said this club has massive potential and hopefully we can keep bringing the fans here to the Racecourse and create a successful legacy for both rugby league and Crusaders in Wales.

"I've loved my first year in rugby league. It has been tougher than I thought. But I have got great coaches here in Wrexham and I couldn't have asked for a better bunch of boys to play with.

"That is a big reason why I want to stay here. I want to stay here and be part of this great team ethic we have here with the players, coaching staff and everyone who is involved with the club.

"I am looking forward to next year, especially getting a full pre-season under my belt instead of coming into things late."

The Crusaders face Hull Kingston Rovers on Saturday, 4 September at the Racecourse, a game that will determine whether or not they make the eight-team Super League play-offs.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version