Dragons Sign Wales International Wyn Jones in Major Boost to Forward Pack

Wales international prop Wyn Jones has been signed by the Dragons, the Gwent region's rugby team, as part of a major push to strengthen their forward pack. Jones, 33, joins from Harlequins after being let go by the Scarlets just over a year ago, and brings a wealth of experience to the team. The move represents an opportunity for Jones to prove himself at the top level and potentially regain his place in the Wales squad.

Key Takeaways:

  • Jones joins the Dragons from Harlequins, where he made 136 appearances for the Scarlets before moving to the English Premiership team in 2024.
  • He last played for Wales in the 2023 Six Nations and was a standout performer on the 2021 Lions tour to South Africa.
  • Jones brings experience and quality to the Dragons' forward pack, providing competition for Rhodri Jones and Rodrigo Martinez, and will act as a mentor to young players like Dylan KG, Jordan Morris, and George Tuckley.
  • Jones cited the opportunity to return to Welsh rugby and the direction and aspirations of the Dragons club as factors in his decision to join.
  • Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia and Forwards Coach Sam Hobbs expressed excitement about the signing, highlighting Jones' undoubted quality and experience, as well as his ability to provide technical prowess at set piece.

Statistics:

  • Jones made 136 appearances for the Scarlets before moving to Harlequins in 2024.
  • He has played for Wales 33 times, including last appearing in the 2023 Six Nations.
  • Jones was a standout performer on the 2021 Lions tour to South Africa.
  • The Dragons have signed a raft of players in recent months, including current Quins team-mate Dillon Lewis, Cardiff trio Thomas Young, Seb Davies, and Tinus de Beer.

Sources:

  • [The Dragons], "Wyn Jones Joins Dragons for 2024/25 Season", [The Dragons official website], [exact reference to original text].
  • [BBC Sport], "Wyn Jones: Wales prop to join Dragons for 2024/25 season", [BBC website], [exact reference to original text].