Powerhouse prop Aki Seiuli has today officially become a Dragon after signing with the Men of Gwent.
The loosehead prop has linked up with his new team-mates at Ystrad Mynach for pre-season training this week after spending the last two seasons in Scotland with Glasgow Warriors.
Seiuli, 28, is the latest front row recruit after confirmation earlier this week that Fiji international tighthead Mesake Doge is also making the switch to Dragons.
“We’re delighted that Aki has now joined us with immediate effect,” said Dean Ryan, Director of Dragons Rugby.
“He’s a strong ball carrying front row who has Super Rugby experience from his time with Highlanders and knows the challenge of the United Rugby Championship well after his spell at Glasgow.
“It’s positive news that we’ve recruited two quality props in Aki and Mesake, especially given the difficulty in recruiting non-Welsh qualified players to Wales.”
New Zealand-born Seiuli played for Otago and the Highlanders before his move to the Northern Hemisphere in 2019.
The powerful front row was recently named in the Samoa squad to play the Maori All Blacks, New Zealand and Tonga. However, he was unable to travel due to current restrictions.
Seiuli said: “It’s awesome to be joining the Dragons. The team has definitely improved the last few seasons and I’m really happy to be a part of it now.
“I’ve spoken to Dean about the plans here and he was very straight about where we are going and the journey we are on. It’s good to get started.
“It’s been great to get into camp this week and get to know the boys and I’m now looking forward to running out at Rodney Parade and seeing the fans back.”
Meanwhile, Dragons are also pleased to officially confirm that prop Aaron Jarvis has also agreed new terms to remain at Dragons.
The experienced Welsh international – who can operate both sides of the scrum - joined from Clermont Auvergne in 2018 and has gone on to make 40 appearances for the Men of Gwent.
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