Tom Duncan: Cornish Pirates forward to leave club after almost a decade

Tom Duncan scored 72 tries for Cornish Pirates in his career, including nine times in 22 games this season

Cornish Pirates back-row Tom Duncan is to leave the Championship club after almost a decade.

The 31-year-old, who joined the Pirates from Redruth in December 2012, has made 155 appearances and scored 72 tries but has decided "to step away from full-time rugby employment".

Duncan overcame serious injuries early in his career to become a try-scoring stalwart for the Pirates.

Meanwhile Cardiff centre Garyn Smith has agreed a move to the club.

"At one stage it looked as if his playing career would perhaps be cut short," said Pirates joint-head coach Alan Paver said of Duncan.

"However, to his credit he showed determination to return to fitness and fought his way back and for a long time now has been a big presence both on and off the field.

"Tom has proved a potent performer, especially when given a sniff of the line from just five metres out, plus his leadership skills have been invaluable.

"Clearly we will miss him, but he can feel very proud of what he has achieved, and he will leave behind fond memories."

Smith makes Mennaye move

Garyn Smith came up through Cardiff's academy and made his debut in 2014

Pirates have also confirmed centre Smiths' signing on a one-year deal from Cardiff.

The 26-year-old former Wales youth international has played more than 100 times for the United Rugby Championship club and helped them win the 2018 European Challenge Cup.

"Garyn is someone with a great pedigree and experience behind him, but who at the same time is still young and ambitious to continue playing at a top level," said Pirates joint-head coach Gavin Cattle.

"We have big holes to fill with the departures of Callum Patterson and Nicolas De Battista, so acquiring the services of Garyn, who will also have natural influence on younger players in the squad, fits really well."