Former Wales and British & Irish Lions prop Wyn Jones has made it a ‘Magnificent Seven’ signings for the Dragons after his arrival was confirmed at Rodney Parade.
Jones, who has been at Harlequins this season along with another new summer recruit Dillon Lewis, knows the Welsh game and the BKT United Rugby Championship inside out after his time at the Scarlets.
Hot on the heels of the announcement of the capture of Tongan speedster Fine Inisi from Moana Pacifica, head coach Filo Tiatia has another experienced head to consider integrating into his new look team for next season.
A 2017 Pro12 title winner with the Scarlets in 2017, a Grand Slammer with Wales in 2019 and a test Lions in South Africa in 2021, the 33-year-old joins fellow prop Lewis, Inisi, Wales U20 captain Harry Beddall, Cardiff Rugby duo Tinus de Beer and Thomas Young and Biarritz Olympique second row Levi Douglas in pledging their futures to the ‘Men of Gwent’.
“I’m delighted that someone of Wyn Jones’ undoubted quality and experience is set to join us next season,” said Tiatia.
“He adds to our front row strength providing competition for Rhodri Jones and Rodrigo Martinez along with our exciting young talent. His experience will be invaluable to our younger players as they push for first team selection.”
A farmer who was born and raised in Llandovery, Jones has 48 Wales caps to his credit to date. He was part of the side that not only won the 2019 Grand Slam but also finished fourth at the World Cup in the same year and then won the Six Nations title in 2021.
“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to link up with Dragons and return home to Welsh rugby this summer. I’ve spoken to Filo Tiatia and Sam Hobbs about the challenges ahead and I’m excited by the direction and aspirations of the club,” said Jones.