Aaron Wainwright: Wales back row signs new Dragons deal
- Published
Aaron Wainwright is Wales' likely number eight starter in the 2024 Six Nations
Wales back row Aaron Wainwright has given Dragons a boost after signing a new contract to stay with the region.
Wainwright, 26, joins international team-mate Rio Dyer in committing his future to the region despite attracting interest from clubs in England.
"I'm delighted to sign," said Wainwright.
"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 has won 43 caps for Wales, featuring in the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.
If Wainwright had left the Wales domestic game he would still be eligible for Wales because he has played more than 25 internationals.
Wainwright has been encouraged to take on more of a leadership role with Wales
"Being over the 25-cap rule, it came into my mind," said Wainwright.
"I'm happy to have re-signed and I'm excited to see what the next couple of years have to hold.
"It's an exciting group we have here at Dragons, 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."
Wainwright says he is happy with the culture head coach Dai Flanagan is creating at Dragons.
"From chatting with Dai (Flanagan), he is excited about what we can do going forward," said Wainwright.
"It's about being consistent and holding ourselves accountable to ensure we play better.
"There is nothing I enjoy more than coming to Rodney Parade and seeing the terraces and stands full of fans cheering and supporting."
Wainwright made his Dragons debut in 2017 and has played more than 100 games for them.
"It's fantastic news another Gwent talent in Aaron Wainwright has signed a new contract with us," said Flanagan.
"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."