Will Rowlands to leave Dragons at the end of the season

Wales lock Will Rowlands is set to leave the Dragons at the end of the season and has agreed terms with a club outside of Wales from the beginning of the 2023/24 season.

His departure was confirmed by the Dragons today after much speculation about the 23-cap international’s future in recent weeks, where he has been linked with a move to France. This confirms his two-year association with the Dragons since leaving Wasps will come to an end, which will also make him ineligible to represent Wales. He has emphasised that he will still be available to play in the World Cup next year.

Rowlands said: “I am sad to be leaving Dragons RFC at the end of this season but would like to thank everyone involved with the club for their support over the past 18 months.

“It has been a pleasure to play at Rodney Parade and I know that the future is bright for this club. It’s home to some truly talented players and I really believe in the vision of Dai and the other coaches. I have no doubt that we are just beginning to see the seeds of that in the performances of the team, and that they will go from strength to strength.

“It is still my great hope that I will be able to represent my country in the World Cup 2023, if called upon.”

Dragons head coach Dai Flanagan said: “We’re obviously disappointed to be losing a player of Will’s quality, but despite the best efforts of ourselves, Will’s representative and the WRU over the last 12 months or so, we were unable to reach agreement on terms for the future.

“Since arriving in Gwent, Will has been a hugely positive influence on our group, captaining the side and being named Wales’ player of the year.

“We know that he’ll continue to give his absolute all to the club for the remainder of his time with us and he will always be welcome at Rodney Parade.”