Dragons sign prop Aaron Jarvis from Clermont

By Jake Jones
Wales international Aaron Jarvis will join Dragons ahead of next season by signing a two-year deal to switch the Top 14 for the PRO14.
The 31-year old Clermont Auvergne prop made his international debut in November 2012 against Argentina in Cardiff and went on to add a further 17 appearances up until his move to France in 2016.
The former Osprey lifted the Top 14 trophy in his first campaign in France, just missing out on a Champions Cup winners’ medal last season, as the French outfit were defeated by Saracens in the final at Murrayfield.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time in France with Clermont,” said the 31-year-old Jarvis. “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 Tight heads too.
“Aaron is an 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, Brock 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.”