URC: Dragons lock Matthew Screech signs new contract

The 31-year-old has spent the last two campaigns on loan from Cardiff and has now turned the second spell at Rodney Parade into a permanent one for at least the next two years.

Screech’s exploits for the Dragons earned a Wales cap against Argentina in the summer of 2021 before he linked up with the Blue and Blacks in the capital.

The second rower returned in 2022 and has racked up 183 appearances for the club, a tally that only Lewis Evans can beat with his 236.

CHARGE: Matthew Screech carrying hard for the Dragons against the Ospreys (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“I’m really pleased to agree new terms and continue my journey with Dragons, more than a decade on from making my club debut,” said Screech, who was signed by Lyn Jones in 2013 after a brief spell with Bedwas following his release by Cardiff.

“Everyone who knows me knows just what is means to pull on the jersey and I’ve always had fantastic support from fans and every time I run out at Rodney Parade.

“We all want to build a successful future for Dragons and I’m looking forward to putting my all into making that happen in the coming seasons.”

Screech, in his tenth season in Newport, is a key figure in the pack and has shouldered a heavy burden after the loss of Wales lock Ben Carter to a hamstring injury.

This season he has got back towards the form that earned an international call-up and head coach Dai Flanagan is pleased to have secured a key figure.

STALWART: Matthew Screech scoring against Glasgow at Principality Stadium for the Dragons

Flanagan said: “Matthew has been a pivotal player for the club over more than a decade and his impact and influence in the squad continues to grow.

“He’s a vastly experienced player who is excited to continue to represent his club and Gwent rugby.

“Matthew is a superb role model for our younger players to learn from while he remains a key figure in our pack in both the domestic and European game.”

Screech will play his part in the development of Wales Under-20s lock Nick Thomas and promising Newport second rower Barny Langton-Cryer.

The Dragons are still likely to hunt another lock for 2024/25 after it was their priority last summer only for a deal for South African Deon Slabbert to collapse due to personal circumstances.

Screech, Carter and Joe Davies are the senior specialists for this season along with lock/back rowers George Nott, Sean Lonsdale and young Ryan Woodman, who is out for the rest of the campaign with a thumb injury.