Rhys Lawrence signs for Dragons

Dragons have signed 29-year-old hooker Rhys Lawrence from Ealing Trailfinders on a two-year contract.

Swansea-born Lawrence gained six Wales under-20s caps, including three appearances at the 2008 Under-20 World Championship before breaking through at the Scarlets. 

Speaking about the signing, Dragons Head Coach Bernard Jackman said: “We are pleased to be able to bring in a player of Rhys’ abilities into the squad at hooker to compete with Elliot Dee and Richard Hibbard. 

“We expect Elliot will continue to push for international honours and we found ourselves short on experience and availability in that position this season, so Rhys’ addition provides us with further competition in a key area.

“I’m sure Rhys will add a lot to our group with his physicality and ability around the park, as well as at the set piece, so we look forward to welcoming him into pre-season.” 

After two seasons with the Scarlets, Lawrence joined Ealing Trailfinders after four years at Bristol, scoring 10 tries in 83 appearances for the West country outfit. He became a key player for the West London club, as they finished second in the Championship this term behind his former club, Bristol.