More good news for Cardiff as Jamie Roberts and John Yapp commit to new deals

BRITISH and Irish Lions centre Jamie Roberts has signed a new contract that will keep him at Cardiff Blues until 2013.

Roberts, the Lions' player of the series on last summer's tour to South Africa, is a product of the Blues' academy and made his debut for the region in 2005. The 22-year-old Wales back is joined in agreeing fresh terms by prop John Yapp, who has put pen to paper on a two-year contract extension, and the pair will be playing alongside Scotland international Dan Parks next season after the Glasgow stand-off agreed to move to the Welsh club in the summer. "I'm fortunate that I've tasted some success early in my career but I remain as focused as ever to play my part in a successful Blues team," said Roberts.

"Last season's achievements and disappointments have driven myself and the whole squad to work harder and strive for bigger and better things."

Meanwhile, Northampton director of rugby Jim Mallinder has agreed a two-year contract extension that will keep him at Franklin's Gardens until 2013.

Mallinder's current deal was due to expire in 2011 and the new terms are reward for his success in transforming Saints into Guinness Premiership title contenders.

Northampton sit second in the table, a point behind leaders Saracens, and occupy the same position in a tough Heineken Cup pool that includes Munster and Perpignan.

Mallinder oversaw an immediate return to the top flight after the club was relegated in 2007 and presided over their European Challenge Cup success last year.

"We still have a lot of improvement to make as a team," said Mallinder.

"The players, coaches and all the backroom staff have worked very hard to be in contention in all three competitions we are in this season. But I want us to stay at the top end of the Premiership and become regular contenders in the Heineken Cup over the next three years."