‘I’m delighted to sign’ – Wales star confirms his future amid Premiership interest
Dragons RFC's Aaron Wainwright is tackled by Hollywoodbets Sharks' Jeandre Labuschagne during the EPCR Challenge Cup pool 1 match at Rodney Parade, Newport, Wales.
Wales back-rower Aaron Wainwright has rejected the advances of Premiership clubs to re-sign with the Dragons.
The talented 43-Test cap international has signed a new multi-year contract with the Dragons.
“Fantastic news”
Wainwright was linked with a move to Bristol Bears and Leicester Tigers ahead of the 2024/25 season, the latter looking for a replacement for Japan-bound Jasper Wiese.
However, the 26-year-old has ended speculation over his future by committing to the Dragons, a move that has pleased head coach Dai Flanagan.
“It’s fantastic news that another Gwent talent in Aaron Wainwright has signed a new contract with us,” the coach said.
“Aaron’s influence at our club grows season on season, he has been playing outstandingly well for us and his best rugby years are ahead of him.
“Aaron’s future has attracted interest around world rugby, such has been his impact with us and Wales in recent times.
“His decision to continue his journey with Dragons is an endorsement of what we are building and underlines his passion to play for his home club.
“Aaron is a proud Gwent man who wants success here and who firmly believes he can become a better player and achieve his aspirations with us.”
Unfinished business
The back-rower cemented himself as a starter with the Test team again last year and has been named in the squad for the upcoming Six Nations.
“I’m delighted to sign. There is a lot of unfinished business for me here and, being a Gwent boy, I want to see how far we can go as a team,”
Wainwright said.
“It’s an exciting group we have here, and I’m excited about contributing more to my club. At this stage in my career, I’m thinking about what I will reflect upon when I finish playing rugby.
“If I can leave my mark at Dragons over these coming years, then I’ll be able to look back with pride. I want to stay I stuck at it and achieved something great at a special place.
“From chatting with Dai (Flanagan), he is excited about what we can do going forward. It’s about being consistent and holding ourselves accountable to ensure we play better.”
His re-signing comes as another boost for the Dragons after winger Rio Dyer also inked a new deal with the side.
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