Dragons bring back prop Seiuli on short-term deal

Dragons have brought back Samoa international Aki Seiuli as short-term cover to help solve their loose-head prop injury crisis.

Seiuli, 31, will boost the club's front row resources with Rhodri Jones, Josh Reynolds, Dylan Kelleher-Griffiths and Jordan Morris currently injured.

Rodrigo Martinez is the only fit loose-head with Cameron Jones brought in from Ospreys on loan to act as cover.

So Seiuli has agreed terms to make a return before linking up with Utah Warriors in Major League Rugby (MLR) in 2025.

He had previously played 50 times for the Dragons in three seasons before leaving at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.

Seiuli is not scheduled to play against Benetton on Saturday, but should be available for the trip to face Connacht in Galway on Saturday, 26 October.

"We're delighted to bring Aki back on a deal that will run into 2025," said head coach Dai Flanagan.

"Aki is an international prop who has vast experience in our competitions and always performs to a high standard.

"Aki is not just a great professional. He's a positive character who knows our environment and will fit seamlessly into what we are building."

Seiuli, who had previous spells with Otago and the Highlanders, first moved to Rodney Parade in 2021 after two years at Glasgow.

He made his Samoa debut in 2022, as his country won the Pacific Nations Cup in Fiji.

"I'm excited to get back with Dragons and looking forward to seeing everyone and working hard for an opportunity to get back out on the field," said Seiuli.