Morgan's last cap came against the USA last summer

The 27-year-old, who has nine caps, moved to the capital from Pontypridd in 1997 and went on to make over 200 appearances for Cardiff and the Blues.

Meanwhile, the Blues have signed 29-cap Tongan and ex-Auckland Blues prop Taua'ao Filise from Bath.

Filise is able to play on either side of the scrum, while the confirmation of the signing of prop Gary Powell from Gloucester is another front-row boost.

Craig has been a great servant at the Arms Park for nearly a decade Blues coach Dai Young

"Having a player of Filise's quality is a huge benefit," Blues coach Dai Young said of the 6ft 4in, 19st 5lb powerhouse.

Wales Under-21 international Powell, 26, is also able to play on either side of the scrum, although he has been specialising at tight-head.

The Church Village-born prop joined Cardiff RFC in 1999, but had his career disrupted by a serious neck injury.

He left three years ago for Leeds before moving to the west country last summer.

"Gary is an excellent addition to any squad, we are delighted to welcome him home as there was a lot of competition to sign him from within Wales and the Guinness Premiership," said Young.

"He has matured as a player over the years and we look forward to having him on board for the new season."

I have fond memories of playing with Cardiff Craig Morgan

Young was keen to pay tribute to Morgan, who won his last cap against the USA on last summer's tour.

"Craig has been a great servant at the Arms Park for nearly a decade and has been a leading try scorer for many seasons," said Young.

"We wish him every success with this new chapter in his career."

Morgan added "I'd like to thank everyone at the Arms Park who has helped me over the years.

"People like our kit man Mike Bieri and Dai Young, who was there when I first joined, the supporters, players and coaches have all been great to me and I have fond memories of playing with Cardiff.

"I've made good friends here and will stay in touch with them and hopefully play a few rounds of golf with the boys over the summer."