Cardiff Rugby is poised to capitalize on the strategic foundations laid by former head coach Matt Sherratt as they face the Lions in the United Rugby Championship (URC) season opener at Cardiff Arms Park. With Sherratt now serving as the Wales attack coach, the team's assistant coaches—Corniel Van Zyl, Gethin Jenkins, Jonny Goodridge, and Scott Andrews—are ready to steer the team towards a successful season.

Building on Last Season's Foundations

Last season, Cardiff narrowly missed the playoffs, finishing ninth. This season, the team is focused on improving their standings and making a significant impact in the URC. Captain Liam Belcher expressed confidence in the team's direction, attributing much of their progress to Sherratt's influence.

New Faces and Key Players

Cardiff will debut three new players: tight-head prop Javan Sebastian, open-side flanker Taine Basham, and utility back Ioan Lloyd. The team also features seven players who recently toured Japan with Wales, adding depth and experience to the squad.

Lions' Challenge

The Lions, coming off a runner-up finish in the Currie Cup, are looking to break their away game losing streak. Despite missing scrum-half Morne van den Berg, who is with the Springboks, the Lions are determined to put up a strong fight.

Match Details

• Venue: Cardiff Arms Park
• Date: Saturday, 27 September
• Kick-off: 19:45 BST
• Coverage: Live on S4C and BBC iPlayer

Lineups

Cardiff: Winnett; Adams, Millard, B Thomas, Bowen; Sheedy, Mulder; Barratt, Belcher (capt), Sebastian, McNally, T Williams, Mann, Basham, Lawrence. Replacements: E Lloyd, Southworth, Assiratti, Donnell, D Thomas, Davies, I Lloyd, Beetham.

Lions: Q Horn, Mafura, Van Wyk, Kriel, Davids; Dobela, N Steyn; Kotze, Marais, Ntlabakanye, Sjoblom, Delport, Cairns, R Venter, Steenkamp. Replacements: Brandon, Pohlmann, R Schoeman, Landsberg, R Du Plessis, Pead, Francis, Jonker.

Officials

• Referee: Filippo Russo (FIR)
• Assistant Referees: Ben Breakspear (WRU), Lucas Yendle (WRU)
• TMO: Stefano Roscini (FIR)

Cardiff's blend of seasoned players and fresh talent, combined with a robust coaching strategy, sets the stage for an exciting and competitive URC season opener.