DRAGONS boss Dai Flanagan believes Steve Cummins will add presence and leadership to the tight five next season after the towering Australian lock signed a two-year contract.
The 32-year-old, who worked with Flanagan at the Scarlets, follows Tongan back rower Solomone Funaki and compatriot Harry Wilson, a centre, in signing up at Rodney Parade.
The 6ft 7ins forward will arrive from Pau in the Top 14 and also had two spells in Super Rugby with Melbourne Rebels.
He impressed with the Scarlets when he made 46 appearances over three campaigns, helping them to the final of the Pro14 in 2018.
Head coach Flanagan said: “It’s fantastic news that Steve joins us as he adds experience to our pack and depth to our second row resources.
“He’s a big man, a presence in any team, and has massive leadership skills that will benefit the squad.
“Steve is superb professional and a winner, someone who’s been part of successful set-ups, and a player who drives standards and demands the best from those players around him.”
The Dragons have looked to strengthen their second row since the departure of Will Rowlands last summer, with a move for hefty South African Deon Slabbert collapsing for personal reasons.
In Cummins they have signed a seasoned campaigner who also has experience of the Currie Cup with Eastern Province Kings.
The experienced lock will join Wales lock Ben Carter, stalwart Matthew Screech, George Nott and Joe Davies as an option.
He will also be charged with helping in the continued development of Carter and Wales Under-20s prospect Nick Thomas.
“After speaking with Dai, I’m really excited by the project and ambitions of the club,” said Cummins, who faced the Dragons three times with the Scarlets.
“It’s clear there’s a good mix of established senior players and talented youngsters coming through at Dragons, which bodes well for the future.
“I loved my time in Wales previously and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to return.
“I also can’t wait to reunite with old teammates, such as Steff Hughes, Dane Blacker and Angus O’Brien.”
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