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Hooker Liam Belcher has been named Cardiff captain for the 2024-25 season, taking over from back row Josh Turnbull who retired at the end of the last campaign.

Belcher made 18 appearances during the 2023-24 campaign and established himself as Cardiff’s first-choice number two.

The 28-year-old, who made his debut in 2014, has made 82 appearances for Cardiff and led the side regularly last season when Turnbull was unavailable.

“It’s a big honour for me and my family and I’m over the moon about it,” Belcher said.

A little over a year ago Belcher was looking at a career away from rugby with his future uncertain amid regional budget cuts.

He eventually signed a new deal with Cardiff in August 2023 before extending his stay with a long-term contract in January 2024.

“I was on Linkedin and Indeed Jobs looking at jobs and apprenticeships because it was a tough time back then,” Belcher said.

“It was a scary moment to be honest with you at that time but going through the dark times helps when you see the lighter side of things I guess.”

Belcher will compete with Wales summer squad members Efan Daniel and Evan Lloyd as well as Dafydd Hughes for the number two jersey at the Arms Park.

“He did a great job last year and has everything in terms of personality,” said Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt.

“He’s hard working and gets on as well with British Lions as he does with the academy lads and he’s a good mentor to the young hookers.”