Dragons sign prop Aaron Jarvis

Editor

The Dragons have confirmed that tighthead prop Aaron Jarvis will return to Wales this summer, arriving from Clermont on a two-year deal.

The 31-year-old former Bath and Ospreys prop made his international debut in November 2012 against Argentina in Cardiff, adding a further 17 appearances with his last outing for Wales against the All Blacks in 2016.

Born in Exeter, Jarvis represented England at both U16 and U19 levels, but chose to play for Wales after leaving Bath to join the Ospreys ahead of their PRO12 title-winning 2011/12 season.

After five seasons at the Liberty Stadium, Jarvis moved to Clermont, lifting the Top 14 in his first campaign in France and just missing out on the Champions Cup title last season, as the French outfit were defeated by Saracens in the Murrayfield final.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time in France with Clermont,” Jarvis told the Dragons' website. “I feel I am returning to Wales a better player and proud of what I’ve achieved during my time here.

“The time feels right to return for a fresh challenge and 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.”

Head coach Bernard Jackman said: “We’re delighted to sign Aaron for next season. He 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.

"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 tightheads too. 

"Aaron is a 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.

"With the likes of Elliot Dee, Richard Hibbard, Leon Brown, Ryan Bevington, Brok Harris and now Aaron Jarvis, our strength and power up front will give us a platform to compete against the best teams in the PRO14 and in Europe.”