Dragons sign Clermont Auvergne's Wales prop Aaron Jarvis
Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union
Dragons have signed Wales tight-head prop Aaron Jarvis from Clermont Auvergne from 2018-19 on a two-year deal.
The 31-year-old follows fellow Wales front-row forwards - and fellow ex-Ospreys - Richard Hibbard and Ryan Bevington in joining the region.
"I've really enjoyed my time in France with Clermont," said Jarvis.
"I feel I am returning to Wales a better player and proud of what I've achieved during my time here."
Jarvis left Ospreys for the French Top 14 club in 2016, the year in which he won the last of his 18 Wales caps.
He said the WRU's new 60 cap international eligibility rule was a "massive" influence on his decision to return to Wales.
"I feel like I've played the best rugby in my career in the last two years... and if I play well for the Dragons I think I can still do well for Wales," he said.
Dragons head coach Bernard Jackman will also have currently-injured Wales tight-head prop Leon Brown and Brok Harris as rivals for Jarvis.
Wales and British and Irish Lions back-row forward is Ross Moriarty's move from Gloucester is Dragons' marquee signing for next season.
Wales centre Tyler Morgan is also set to stay at the south east Wales region.
'Pedigree, profile and talent'
"He [Jarvis] has the pedigree, profile and talent we were looking for to boost our front row options, with a wealth of experience at regional, European and international level," said Jackman.
"I feel that his game and in particular his scrummaging is now even better than before having experienced the different forces and styles that the Top 14 exposes tight-heads to.
"Aaron is an honest, hard working player and exactly the type of player we need on the pitch, but also off it to act as a role model for the young talent that has emerged this season."
Jarvis added: "I'm excited about joining the Dragons next season given the squad Bernard is building and linking up again with Richard Hibbard and Ryan Bevington after our time together at the Ospreys."
"We all went our separate ways so to come back together will be really good."
The Exeter-born player had joined Ospreys from Bath in 2011 and made his Wales debut against the All Blacks in October, 2012.
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But they need more - and they also need a couple of quality signings. Above all players who know how to finish the game. FIVE victories have been snatched away in the last minute.
@19 yes! Some experience will hopefully see the Dragons turn those games into wins
@Bo Jangles
5th
I'm wondering if any of the regions have missed a trick by not signing this lad?
Strong carrier and athlete from what I've heard (& seen a little of).
I'm sure he'll have aspirations of playing for Wales, so one to keep an eye on over the next couple of years.
It may take a few seasons, but the Dragons will continue to strengthen year on year - whilst every year the youngsters pick up another season of experience.
They're also unlikely to get many more Wales call ups between them given their ages so they're tried and trusted players who can see out the season.
It's the defence that needs sorting though whoever they recruit. Hopefully these guys can lead by example.
I think the Ospreys and the Dragons are recruiting well. Should set both teams up nicely for next season
Saracens,downward slope?
I think they will win the premiership. Even if finalists does not mean downward slope. Quins, yes. There is something rotten at that club... too many been there too long plus poor coaches bar Adam Jones. It would not surprise me if they were relegated next season as newcomers Bristol will offer more than London Irish did. Northampton will come back.