Anscombe clocks off with message of gratitude for Cardiff fans
Cardiff and Wales star Gareth Anscombe has sent a final message on social media to his fans before his move to the Ospreys.
The New Zealand-born Grand Slam winner said: “Thank you to the Arms Park faithful, I hope I made you proud” in a touching message where he showed his gratitude to the team that allowed him to relaunch his international career.
This was his message:
My last day with the @cardiff_blues today. Forever grateful for my time in the blue jersey, some amazing memories. I’ve met a lot of good people along the way that have gone on to become great mates. Thank you to the arms park faithful, I hope I made you proud. ✌🏻 #chicken pic.twitter.com/RfKlRCO8mC
— Gareth Anscombe (@Gareth_Anscombe) May 14, 2019
After staring for New Zealand under-20s, Anscombe was never able to break into the All Blacks se-tup with either the Auckland Blues or the Chiefs in is native country. The move to Cardiff in 2014 opened the door for him to be selected by Warren Gatland for Wales.
This season has definitely been Anscombe’s breakthrough in the red shirt, as he guided Wales to Grand Slam victory in March and earned man of the match in the devastating victory over Ireland in the final game.
However, while he has been deployed primarily as a fly-half for Wales, Cardiff have played him largely at full-back, which could have potentially affected his form for the national side. Therefore, a move to the Ospreys seems like a wise choice as he can consistently play No10 there.
The post-Six Nations fears were that Anscombe would be leaving Wales altogether, signing a more lucrative deal in either England or France and ending his chances of being selected for Wales. Therefore, the fact that he has moved to another region is a massive bonus for Wales, particularly with the World Cup looming.
The Ospreys also can potentially be playing in the Champions Cup next season if they win their play-off next Saturday against the Scarlets.
But the 28-year-old has had a great spell in the Welsh capital, notably helping the Blues win the Challenge Cup last season, and he seems very grateful for the opportunity the club gave him.
WATCH: Toulon owner softens his criticism of Julian Savea