Second row ace Matthew Screech has today signed a new contract as he continues to rewrite the record books at Dragons RFC.
Vastly experienced Screech, 33, is currently the second highest appearance maker ever at the club having featured in 212 games for Dragons.
The Wales international lock can now look forward to his 13th season with the Men of Gwent after putting pen to paper on a multi-year deal.
Screech follows Angus O’Brien, Che Hope, Brodie Coghlan, Rio Dyer, Chris Coleman, David Richards and Oli Burrows in agreeing fresh terms.
Head Coach Filo Tiatia said: “We’re really pleased that Matthew has re-signed with us. He’s played over 200 games at this level and brings a lot of experience.
“He is now fully fit and against Zebre recently he showed what he is all about as he whacked guys, accelerated into contact and won us lineout and set piece.
“It’s great news that a player who is as well respected and important as Matthew remains with us as we continue to grow as a squad and build on this season.”
Church Village-born Screech made 163 appearances for Dragons during his first spell with the club between 2013 and 2021.
Following a period with Cardiff Rugby, Screech returned to Dragons in 2022 and continues to be a key player for the club after going past 200 appearances at the start of this season.
Screech won the league’s Ironman Award in 2019/20 for the most minutes played and was called up by Wales for the first time in 2021, making his debut against Argentina at Principality Stadium.
Screech said: “This club means a huge amount to me and it’s a place I regard as home. It’s given me the opportunity to live out my childhood dreams and I’m thankful the journey continues with this new contract.
“It’s been amazing to see the team grow this year. We’ve made quality signings and the young boys stepping up has made the environment such a competitive place, which has resulted in better performances on it. Reaching the semi-finals in Europe is evidence of all that.
“On a personal level, to reach 200 games was a milestone I had wanted to achieve for a while,” he added.
“I remember hoping for one game for the Dragons during a pre-season trial. To now have played over 200 and be second in the appearance chart is something I’m immensely proud of and very grateful for.”
Senior Coach Sam Hobbs welcomed news of the new contact adding: “Matthew’s a hugely popular member of the squad who’s extremely experienced, earned international selection and played over 200 games for this club.
“He can operate at both four and five, as he's a big man who can play that physical four role, but also, he has good lineout understanding and calling ability. He's invaluable in our lineout meetings and our planning.
“Having Matthew re-sign is excellent news as it adds another layer of experience and quality to our second row forwards next season.
“We’re looking forward to Matthew finishing the season strongly and then continuing to play a big role for us in the seasons to come.”
Matthew has signed - have you? Season Memberships for 2026/27 are available NOW! Click HERE to buy online or call 01633 670690 for more information.
This club means a huge amount to me and it’s a place I regard as home. It’s given me the opportunity to live out my childhood dreams and I’m thankful the journey continues with this new contract...
