Steven Shingler to step down a level to prove a point after Blues battle with Anscombe

Ealing Trailfinders have snapped up Steven Shingler from Cardiff Blues for the 2019/20 season.

The Londoners are unlikely to reel in leaders London Irish in this year’s promotion race to the Premiership - the are eight points behind on the Championship table with just four matches remaining.  

However, the arrival of the 27-year-old out-half for next year signals Trailfinders’ determination to get even more competitive and force their way into England’s top tier league. 

At 6ft 3ins, Shingler will bring a huge amount of size to a back line which is beginning to take shape for the 19/20 campaign.

Shingler began his career at Llanelli before moving to London Irish in 2011 for his first stint in England. After making 47 appearances there he headed back to Wales with the Scarlets and stayed for three years, playing 75 times and scoring an impressive 348 points.

In 2016 he signed for Cardiff and has been in the Welsh capital since, scoring 205 points in 60 appearances while battling with the likes of Gareth Anscombe for the starting shirt.

On the international scene, Shingler has represented Wales at under-20s level 14 times and has also been called up to the senior squad twice for their tours to Japan and South Africa in the 2013/14 season.

Shingler is excited about his new challenge. “I’m really looking forward to joining Ben (Ward) and the team. The current squad have had a great season and I hope I can contribute next year.

“Personally, a chance to play back in England is very exciting and after talking to Ben and hearing about the club’s future ambition, it’s something I’m very much excited to be a part of.”

Director of rugby Ward, who also announced the signing of Nathan Fowles from Edinburgh, is thrilled to add such a talent to his squad for next season.  “Steven is very experienced with a huge number of top level games under his belt and it’s a testament to our progress that we are able to bring someone of his calibre in.

“He will offer us a huge amount of game control and this is a fantastic opportunity for him to further his career as he buys in to our exciting vision.”