The rebuild at the Dragons continues apace with Wales lock Seb Davies being unveiled as the latest summer recruit and fellow international Cai Evans signing a new contract.
Davies is following in the footsteps of Cardiff Rugby teammates Thomas Young and Tinus de Beer in travelling 12 miles east to Rodney Parade and has become the fourth Welsh international forward to join head coach Filo Tiatia’s squad.
Harlequins front row duo Wyn Jones and Dillon Lewis have also signed up for next season, while other newcomers include Wales U20 skipper and flanker Harry Beddall, Tongan back line star Fine Inisi and lock Levi Douglas.
The 28-year-old Davies has earned 17 Welsh caps to date, featuring in both in the back and second rows, and played more than 150 times for his hometown club of Cardiff. He will be able to pack down alongside Dragons’ skipper Ben Carter to form an all-international second row and in a pack next season that could contain no fewer than seven Welsh caps.
“Seb brings a vast amount of playing experience and is a powerful second row who has real versatility to his game. His best rugby years are still ahead of him, and I know he is very motivated to make an impact at our club in the seasons to come,” said Tiatia.
Evans has agreed terms on a new contract at Rodney Parade as he fights to return to full fitness after suffering an Achilles injury last season. Equally comfortable playing at full back and fly half he has scored 97 points in 20 games to date for the ‘Men of Gwent’.
“I’m delighted to re-sign with the Dragons, and I’m driven to move forward from what has been a challenging season with significant injuries. I’m massively thankful for the support I’ve received from the staff and my teammates,” said the 25-year-old Evans.
“What hasn’t wavered is my self-belief, and I can’t wait to get my boots back on and play in front of a rocking Rodney Parade soon. The drive on the pitch is to achieve more consistent and winning performances.
“The signings we’ve made, alongside a talented group of young players, will hopefully turn these narrow losses into wins. I can’t wait to be a part of it.”
Evans, who launched his senior professional career at the Ospreys, won 20 caps at Wales U20 level and currently has two senior caps.