Ospreys old boy returns

 

A part of four league winning campaigns, he left the Ospreys for London Irish in the summer of 2012, returning on loan six months later as much needed injury cover after the region lost three front-line tightheads. 

 

He then spent 2013/14 at London Welsh, helping them clinch promotion back to the Premiership at the first attempt.

 

Recruitment and Retention Manager, Andy Lloyd, said Cai will add much needed experience and cover in a key position for the coming season.

 

"It's positive news for us in that he is someone with bags of experience in a key position, who will be available to us all season long” said Lloyd.

 

"He knows, understands and values what it means to be an Osprey and what is expected of anyone who wears the jersey.

 

"On average we are using 10 to 12 props over the course of a season so it's a position where you can't have too many options. 

 

"There's been a lot said about the young talent we have coming through in the front row but to give them the best chance of fulfilling their potential you have to provide the right support on and off the field.

 

"Cai's experience will certainly help with that, particularly when our international props are away for long periods.

 

"He's a durable character, a big presence around the environment, and moving away from the region over the last couple of years has allowed him to mature and realise exactly what he had here.

 

"In his loan period two seasons ago I think we really saw the best of him, it was the best he's played in an Ospreys shirt.

 

"With the experience gained from different environments in recent seasons, we expect him to come back into the group and be a positive influence.”

 

Griffiths is the sixth player to sign for the Ospreys ahead of next season, following on from Worcester and Fiji centre Josh Matavesi, EP Kings second row Rynier Bernardo, Newport Gwent Dragons pair Dan Evans (fullback) and Sam Parry (hooker), and Carmarthen Quins loosehead prop Gareth Thomas.