Stalwart lock Screech signs a new deal to stay with Dragons
DRAGONS lock Matthew Screech has signed a new deal to remain with the region for an 11th season.
Screech, 31, is currently the second-highest appearance maker at the club having featured in 183 games.
He follows Wales duo Rio Dyer and Aaron Wainwright in remaining at Rodney Parade.
“I’m really pleased to agree new terms and continue my journey... everyone who knows me knows just what it means to pull on the jersey,” Screech said.
Screech made 163 appearances for Dragons between 2013 and 2021 and, following a spell with Cardiff, returned in 2022.
Dragons head coach Dai Flanagan said: “Matthew has been a pivotal player for the club over more than a decade and his impact and influence in the squad continues to grow.
“Matthew is a superb role model for our younger players to learn from while he remains a key figure in our pack in both the domestic and European game.”
Meanwhile, Ospreys pair Keelan Giles and Tom Botha have signed new deals to stay at the region.
South African prop Botha, 33, made his debut in August 2018 and has made 113 appearances.
Wing Giles, 26, has scored 32 tries in 85 appearances for Ospreys since making his debut in September 2016.
“The Ospreys have been a massive part of my career, I grew up supporting them, and I’m excited to continue my development here,” said Giles.
“We’ve got a great bunch of players and coaches, I’ve been enjoying my rugby so signing this deal was a no-brainer.”
Botha added: “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue my journey with the Ospreys. It’s a great club with a fantastic culture and ambitious players.
“The support from fans has been amazing, and I’m eager to repay that faith with strong performances on the field.”
Head coach Toby Booth says keeping the pair is a boost for the Ospreys.
“Keelan is an exciting talent that can often light up a game and we know there’s even more to come from him,” said Booth.
“He is an important part of our team. We’ve seen him grow here and it’s clear he represents the values and ambition of the Ospreys.
“Tom has been an integral part of our setup here at the Ospreys. His set piece has been exemplary which is a defining factor of our identity.
“In the tight, you need someone of Tom’s calibre, and his destructive scrummaging ability has been vital for us. We are delighted that he sees his future with us and we look forward to what’s to come.”