Rising Wales star Basham opts to stay local with long term contract

The Dragons have managed to retain rising Wales back-row star Taine Basham, securing his services with a new 'long term contract'.

The Newport-born back row has now dedicated his long-term future to his home region in order to continue his impressive rise with the Men of Gwent.

Since making his Test debut against Canada in July, the 6 foot, 95kg Wales international has collected seven caps for his country.

The compact flanker has taken his chance to make a name for himself on the international stage following a number of injuries to key personnel in Wayne Pivac's Wales squad. Alongside Ellis Jenkins, Basham's ball carrying was a major feature of the Autumn Nations Series, as was his work on the deck in the absence of Josh Navidi and Justin Tipuric.

“We’re pleased that Taine has committed his future and will continue his development in our environment," said Dragons director of rugby Dean Ryan. “This contract is reward for the hard work and progress he has made with us over the last few seasons.”

Basham added: “I’m really happy to sign up. I’ve come through the Academy system at Dragons, it’s my region and feels like home.

“I feel this is the right environment for me to continue to work as hard as possible on my game and on my development.

“I’m excited about what the future holds here and how I can help the Dragons continue to move forward.”

Since his Dragons debut in 2018, the outstanding 22-year-old has made 53 senior appearances for the region, scoring 12 tries. A dynamic forward, Basham started out at junior level with Talywain RFC and has been developed in the Dragons Academy and also impressed on the international stage with Wales U20s.

Basham played every minute of the recent Autumn Nation Series, winning the man-of-the-match award in Australia's victory.