Match Preview – Cardiff Rugby
Saturday 6th September | 3:00pm Kick-Off | Cardiff Arms Park

Richmond’s 1st XV head into their second pre-season fixture this weekend with a trip to the iconic Cardiff Arms Park to face United Rugby Championship side Cardiff Rugby. Kick-off is at 2:30pm.

Two weeks ago, Richmond opened their campaign with a stern test against Blackheath in Rugby’s oldest rivalry. Despite a 33–14 defeat, the game provided valuable minutes for 27 players in Rob Powell’s performance squad, giving them a first taste of action after the summer break.

With two more weeks of preparation under their belts, Powell has now named a 30-man squad to travel to Wales, ensuring plenty of opportunities across the group.

This weekend presents an altogether different challenge. Cardiff Rugby finished 9th in last season’s URC, just one point behind Scarlets, the highest-placed Welsh side. Their squad is laced with international quality, from electric winger Josh Adams (62 Wales caps) to world-class number 8 Taulupe Faletau. For Richmond, it’s a chance to test themselves against some of the best in the game.

The day also coincides with Cardiff’s annual Summerfest, so travelling supporters can expect a packed programme of rugby and entertainment. This will be the first time Richmond has faced Cardiff’s senior side since the 1998/99 season, adding further intrigue to the occasion.

Rob Powell has named a 30-man squad for the trip, blending ten summer signings with a core group from last season’s National 1 title-winning side:

1. Theo Bevacqua
2. Will Goffey
3. Luke Spring
4. Jake Monson (VC)
5. George Nugent
6. Luke Frost
7. Jared Cardew
8. Donnacha Byrne
9. Brodie Young
10. Jason Baggott
11. Sam Smith
12. Ronnie Du Randt
13. Paddy Case
14. Josh Addams
15. Callum Grieve

16. Alex Post
17. Hamish Murray
18. Jimmy Litchfield
19. Aron Suggate
20. Dan Ormerod
21. Xavier Hastings
22. Henry Wills
23. Miles Wakeling
24. Alex Ashton
25. Freddie Charles
26. Lewis Dennett
27. James Langston
28. Werner Nel
29. Sam Dardis
30. Archie Brosch

What’s Next?
Richmond return to the Athletic Ground in just over two weeks’ time to face Cambridge in the final pre-season fixture. Tickets are £10 for non-member adults and free for all 2025/26 Richmond Rugby members.

The countdown is also on for the Champ Rugby opener at home to Chinnor on Saturday 4th October. Secure your seat now and be there as Richmond kick off the new campaign in Old Gold, Red and Black.