Dragons Rugby Club have bolstered their front row with the signing of South African tight-head prop Cebo Dlamini on a short-term contract from Griquas. The 24-year-old joins the Dragons ahead of their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash with Connacht on Saturday (19:45 GMT) and could make a swift debut at Rodney Parade.

Dlamini’s Recent Achievements

Dlamini enjoyed a standout year in 2025, captaining Griquas to the Currie Cup title at Ellis Park in September, demonstrating leadership and scrummaging prowess. This season, he has also made two appearances for the Sharks, coming off the bench in the URC draw with Dragons and facing Toulouse in round one of the Champions Cup.

“Cebo is going to be a great addition to the group,” said Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia. “He is a very good scrummager and wants to impose himself because he is a good ball carrier and defender. He’s a very good character, and I’ve been impressed with the questions he asks and his deep understanding for learning.”

Short-Term Signing

Dlamini’s deal runs until the end of January 2026, providing cover for Wales internationals Chris Coleman (hamstring) and Dillon Lewis (calf), both sidelined due to injury. With the Dragons’ front row depleted, Dlamini’s arrival is expected to strengthen the pack ahead of a challenging run of games, including URC fixtures against Connacht, Cardiff, and Scarlets, as well as ongoing efforts to qualify for the Challenge Cup knockout stages.

Support from Teammates

Fellow Dragons prop Robert Hunt, who joined from the Cheetahs in the summer, welcomed Dlamini to the squad.

“It was a good surprise. We’ve known each other since Varsity Cup days,” said Hunt. “He’s a genuinely nice guy and has a lot of experience. Captaining your side to a Currie Cup win in South Africa is massive. He’s strong, stocky, and scrums well—a brilliant addition to our pack.”

Dragons’ Recent Form

Dragons recorded their first win of 2025 with a thrilling comeback victory over Lyon in the Challenge Cup. They now aim to secure a first URC victory since the opening weekend of the 2024-25 season against Connacht.

The squad will also welcome back key players for the Connacht match: lock Ben Carter and wing Rio Dyer, rested against Lyon, while Wales international Brodie Coghlan is nearing a return at hooker from a hand injury.

What Dlamini Brings to Dragons

Dlamini is known for:

• Leadership skills, evidenced by captaining Griquas to the Currie Cup title
• Strong scrummaging and ball-carrying ability
• Defensive reliability and versatility around the field
• Experience in both South African domestic competitions and the URC/Champions Cup

Dragons fans can expect him to make an immediate impact in the front row, helping the team compete at a high level during this injury-affected period.