By Paul Jones
Dean Ryan believes Will Rowlands can make a big impact at the Dragons now the Wales second row’s move from Wasps has been confirmed.
Rowlands has ensured he will continue to be able to play for Wales when his current contract at the Ricoh Arena expires this summer.
The 29-year-old would have been barred from Wales selection under the WRU’s 60-cap policy, which restricts players who play their club rugby outside the four regions from representing Wales if they fall under the threshold.
Rowlands’ pending arrival at Rodney Parade has been a deal both the Dragons and WRU have worked hard to get over the line for some time.
Ryan, director of rugby at the Dragons, said: “Will is a proven force who has produced consistent and impressive performances for Wasps in the English Premiership over a number of years.
“He’s an athletic and powerful second row who has also shown his ability be making the step up to international level with Wales over the last 12 months.
“We wanted to strengthen our front five and increase our options so we’re delighted to be able to bring Will to Wales and look forward to him making a big impression at Dragons.”
Within the last year, the Dragons have recruited Wales centre Nick Tomkins on loan from Saracens, Jonah Holmes from Leicester, and Welsh-qualified forwards Greg Bateman and Joe Maksymiw.
Hammersmith-born Rowlands made his international debut for Wales in February 2020 when he appeared off the bench in the Six Nations clash with France at the Principality Stadium.
“I’m very excited by the move,” said Rowlands. “It’s a new chapter for me, having only played my rugby at one club, so I’m looking forward to some new experiences and challenging myself in a new environment.
“It’s a young group at Dragons with some real potential that has already made good strides forward under Dean (Ryan) and the rest of the coaches.
“I’m looking to playing my part and contributing from next season so we can improve as a team and as a group of players.
Rowlands made his debut for Wasps in an Anglo-Welsh Cup match against Leicester in 2012, earning a first team contract in 2014.
He spent much of the 2015/16 season on loan at Jersey in the Championship before returning to Wasps to make his English Premiership debut away at Saracens.
