Tinus de Beer has become the third player from Cardiff Rugby to join Dragons RFC for next season.
The South African outside half’s switch sees him follow in the footsteps of back row international Thomas Young and Wales lock Seb Davies ahead of the 2025-26 season. The Dragons have also recruited former Cardiff, Wales and Harlequins prop Dillon Lewis.
De Beer has spent this season and last at the Arms Park and was named as the both the Fans’ Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards last year.
The 29-year-old former South Africa Under-20s international played for Blue Bulls and Griquas before reaching back-to-back Currie Cup finals with Pumas in South Africa and then making the switch to the BKT United Rugby Championship.
“I’m very excited and honoured to joining the Dragons. It offers me an opportunity to grow professionally, work on new challenges, and collaborate with new coaches and teammates who bring different perspectives and strengths,” said De Beer.
“I’m excited to build strong relationships within the team and be part of a culture that values hard work, honesty, respect, and continuous improvement.
“The history of the club and the support it receives from the community are incredibly inspiring and I’m excited to be part of a club with such a rich history and passionate supporters base.”
De Beer will battle with Angus O’Brien and Will Reed for the No 10 jersey and follows in a long line of South African players who have played for either Newport or the Dragons – Gary Teichmann, Adrian Garvey, Bobby Skinstad and Percy Montgomery
“We looked closely at how Tinus plays the game and we’re excited by the way he can add to us with his attacking nature. He’s also a strong defender, a player who puts himself on the front line, and who brings real tactical awareness to the game,” said Dragons’ head coach Filo Tiatia.
“We feel he’ll be the ideal fit alongside the likes of Angus O’Brien and the young tens we have at the club.”