James Hook has backed Cardiff to keep a foothold in the leading positions of the United Rugby Championship (URC) after climbing to fourth.

The capital city club gave Welsh rugby a much-needed lift on an otherwise sobering return to the URC for the regions

Matt Sherratt’s side soared up the table following victory over Dragons and defeats for Scarlets, Ulster, Connacht and Lions.

And with the next league fixtures against Dragons, strugglers Ospreys and at home to Sharks, former league winner Hook said Cardiff can consolidate a play-off position.

“You look at the confidence around the club right now ever since that comeback win over Ulster, there’s a real resilience,” said Hook.

“Cardiff are flying the flag. They’re getting wins, which breeds more confidence, and Matt Sherratt will be targeting this block of games to make sure they are in those top positions at the end of the season.”