Leigh Halfpenny: 'I'm not leaving Cardiff Blues'

Wales international Leigh Halfpenny has insisted that he has no plans to leave Cardiff Blues.

Halfpenny, who was voted player of the tournament after impressive performances in the Six Nations, has been linked with a move away from Wales.

However, the 24-year-old full-back has said that he intends to see out his contract with the Cardiff Blues, which runs until the end of next season.

"For me, as far as I am concerned, I am contracted to the Blues for this year and next year," Sky Sports News quotes Halfpenny as saying.

"I love playing rugby in Wales. It's fantastic. It's where I am from, it's my home, and as far as I am concerned I am happy playing my rugby in Wales.

"It is hugely important that we keep our players in Wales and keep our youngsters here. It's hugely important for Welsh rugby as a whole that we do so."

Halfpenny has played 44 times for Wales.