James erupted onto the Welsh rugby scene in 2007. Having retired from a promising athletics career he became a full-time rugby player with Cardiff Blues scoring on his debut against Edinburgh in Murrayfield.
The same season he was selected to tour Australia with Wales but had to wait until August to make his Wales debut against England at Twickenham.
“I’ve had a fantastic seven years with the Blues and am very grateful to have been given the opportunity to play for the Blues and for the support I’ve been shown over my career,” said James.
“There are many highlights but winning the EDF and Amlin cups are the ones that stand out.
“It was not an easy decision to leave, as the Blues made a very good offer, but I felt I needed a change after seven years with the same side.
“I feel my game has improved a lot this season under Phil Davies, but moving to Exeter will be a new challenge for me and I’m looking forward to a fresh start in the English Premiership.”
Cardiff Blues Director of Rugby Phil Davies added, “It has been a pleasure to work with Tom over the past eight months.”
“He takes a very professional approach to his training and conditioning and has been a real asset to the team over a number of years and to me personally this season.”
“However, we understand his reasons for leaving and wanting to face a fresh challenge and we wish him the best of luck with his rugby career at Exeter Chiefs.”
