BBC SPORT | Rugby Union | Celtic | Jenkins seals Ponty return

Neil Jenkins revealed one of Welsh rugby's worst-kept secrets on Thursday by leaving Cardiff and returning to Pontypridd in a two-year deal.

There has been fevered speculation about the fly-half's journey back up the A470 since Lynn Howells took over as coach at the turn of the year.

Now, with Jenkins fully fit again and looking for first-team rugby, he will be running out in Pontypridd colours once more, saying the opportunity was too good to miss.

Neil Jenkins fact-file

Born: 08/07/1972

Birthplace: Church Village

Height: 5ft 10in (1.77m)

Weight: 13st 5lb (85.7 kg)

Position: Fly-half

International record: 86 caps (1029 points - 11 tries)
Debut: 19/01/91 v England
Last match: 15/06/02 v South Africa

Lions: 3 caps - 1997 v South Africa

"I'm sure the move will not come as a surprise to some people," he told BBC Radio Wales. "But the chance to play at Pontypridd again was too good to turn down.

"I had a fantastic time at Cardiff, they are a great club and it was disappointing to leave.

"But I'm excited by the challenge at Ponty and I'm looking forward to the future.

"Everyone saw how well they played in the second half of last season.

"There's a lot of good youngsters coming through. With five forwards selected for the tour to South Africa there is talent and potential there.

"Hopefully I can add a bit of experience to the side and I'll be working closely with Ceri Sweeney. He'll be my rival for the no10 jersey, but we'll also be trying to help each other."

Cardiff keen on Henry

The 31-year-old had a year left on his contract. But Cardiff also have Iestyn Harris and Nicky Robinson vying for the fly-half position, and Jenkins wanted regular rugby.

It is understood that he will combine playing duties and a role with Pontypridd backers Buy as You View. after signing a two-year deal.

Cardiff's Iestyn Harris
Iestyn Harris is vying with Nicky Robinson for the Cardiff No10 shirt

Jenkins is hoping that regular rugby can help add to his record number of 86 Welsh caps, saying he has no intention of hanging up his intwernational boots.

"The thrill of putting on that red jersey - whatever the number - is second to none.

"Steve Hansen was good enough to take me on the South African tour, and I hope good displays for Ponty will put me in the picture again. But there are some fine fly-halves in Wales."

Jenkins' departure was the fourth among experienced players from the Arms Park during the summer.

Craig Quinnell, Jonathan Humphreys and Robert Howley have all moved to the Zurich Premiership, and coach Rudy Joubert is also heading back to South Africa.