Lewis transfer in doubt
May 5, 2000

Wales prop Andrew Lewis' lucrative six figure transfer from Cardiff to Bath is on the verge of collapse.

Bath announced yesterday that 26-year old Lewis captain for Wales' development tour of Canada in June would join them this summer.

But in a dramatic development tonight Cardiff chairman Peter Thomas has blasted the Premiership high-fliers, claiming Lewis will remain at the Arms Park for another season.

Thomas insists Cardiff have a fourth year option to retain Lewis, who signed a three-year Arms Park contract at the age of 22.

"All I have done is exercise the fine print of Andrew's contract," said Thomas.

"He was 22 when he signed a three-year contract but he didn't read the small print. He is very embarrassed by all of this.

"I am very annoyed Bath are trying to sign him without talking to us. All we have done is to exercise our contractual rights."

Bath have targeted 22 times-capped Lewis as the natural successor to veteran England international Victor Ubogu, who will retire in three weeks' time.

They could now challenge Thomas' reasoning or attempt to buy out the apparent option on Lewis' Cardiff contract, but it is a distraction Bath do not need with the Premiership title race approaching its climax.

If Bath win their final two league matches against Saracens and leaders Leicester then they will be crowned champions should the Tigers lose against either Harlequins on Saturday, or Bristol on Sunday week.

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