ULSTER NUMBER EIGHT Nick Williams will join Cardiff Blues next season at the end of his current contract.
The 32-year old has signed a “long-term deal” with the Welsh outfit after four years with the Irish province.
Williams, the 2012/13 Pro-12 player of the season, was a fan favourite at Ravenhill scoring 13 tries in 67 appearances for Ulster.
Commenting on the move, Williams said:
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in Belfast. The Ulster people are special and the supporters have always been so good to me. My daughter was born in Ireland so it will always be a special place for our family.
“Rest assured, I’ll be giving everything for the team until the end of this season. We have set our targets over the next five months and I want to play my part in us achieving them.”
Williams was, of course, given an eight-week ban for striking Cardiff’s Rhys Patchell during a Pro 12 last season but won’t have to worry about any awkward dressing room encounters as the out-half is set to join Scarlets at the end of the season.
In a statement issued this morning, Bryn Cunningham, Ulster’s Operations Director said:
“Nick is a true gentleman and a real fans’ favourite. He is currently producing some excellent rugby for Ulster and I know that he will continue in the same vain for the rest of the season, with so much still to play for.
“Over the next period we will be able to announce Nick’s replacement, which will be a top class addition to the squad moving into next season.”
