This post was originally published on this site.
The latest rugby news stories from Wales and beyond
Here’s your round-up of all the latest rugby news for the morning of Thursday, December 18.
Dragons fight to convince Wainwright
Aaron Wainwright is the latest top Welsh rugby star whose club is trying to convince him to stay in Wales amid big interest from clubs in England. The back rower has previously been targeted by the likes of Bristol Bears, Leicester Tigers, Saracens, Exeter Chiefs, and Northampton Saints, and is once again out of contract after signing an extension in January, 2024.
The 28-year-old is a key man for the region but has won just a handful of rugby matches in recent seasons. He was the driving force behind the Dragons’ first win of 2025 against Lyon last weekend.
“Waino is really important to us and we are having chats about retaining him,” said head coach Filo Tiatia.
“We want to keep him here, he is a Gwent man and his performance last weekend showed how important he is, not only for Dragons but Wales.
“He is a beautiful man and inspirational in the way that he does things – he is uniquely Aaron Wainwright, he understands what he is about and what he brings. We want to keep him in the building.”
Wainwright faces a big decision just a week after the departures of Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake were confirmed by the Ospreys.
Dragons sign prop Dlamini
Dragons have announced the signing of prop Cebo Dlamini with immediate effect from Suzuki Griquas.
The 24-year-old South African tighthead has joined ahead of the upcoming URC clash with Connacht at Rodney Parade, having already faced his new employers while on loan at the Sharks.
Dlamini captained Griquas to the Currie Cup title at Ellis Park in September and has made two appearances for Sharks this season. He comes with impressive pedigree.
Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia said: “Cebo has linked up with us, has quickly nailed his roles and has been awesome.
“He’s a strong scrummager and a good learner who picks things up quickly. Robert Hunt and Tinus de Beer are also helping him with the information and settling.
“Cebo is a good man and character, I’ve been impressed with the questions he asks and his deep understanding for learning,” he added.
“We’re down a few players in that position so we are grateful that he has accepted the opportunity to come and help. He’s a good addition.”
Premiership coach departs after just six months
Marco Bortolami has left Premiership club Sale Sharks “by mutual consent due to unforeseen circumstances” after six months in the role.
The 45-year-old joined the club in June after departing Italian club Benetton in his homeland.
“I would like to thank everyone at Sale for making me feel so welcome during my time at the club. I wish the club every success,” he told the club website.
He leaves with Sale seventh in the league after two wins and four defeats from six matches.
All Blacks star hits out at law change
Former All Blacks star Israel Dagg warns proposed changes to the tackle height law could create a “**** storm” with players, and throw the game into confusion.
World Rugby has decided to expand its tackle height law trial, which for elite players is currently at shoulder level, but the governing body is now set to lower the threshold for the World Rugby U20 Championship in 2026.
Asked about the changes, told Sport Nation’s Scott and Izzy Show: “This is going to get so confusing. I can understand why [they’ve introduced it] because they’re trying to get ahead of the curve with head knocks and player safety.
“We all want that but there’s going to be instances in the game, there’s going to be moments and parts of the game you just can’t alleviate, you can’t get rid of it – it’s just impossible.
“That’s why the game is so beautiful and unique as it is. Rugby is a game for all shapes and sizes, we have to remember that, and there are going to be times when you can’t get rid of certain things on the park.
“Honestly, the more that I think about it, it’s going to be a s***storm.”
