Welsh rugby regions make key signings ahead of new season
Despite losing several star players over the summer, Wales' four regions — Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets — have made significant new signings ahead of the 2026-27 season. The clubs continue to operate amid uncertainty as the WRU plans to reduce the number of regions from four to three.
Welsh rugby's regions saw notable departures this summer, including Jac Morgan, Dewi Lake, Aaron Wainwright and Marnus van der Merwe, but Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets have all signed the new participation agreement, which comes with an increased annual budget, and made several key additions.
Movement between regions and abroad
Ospreys have signed back three Tom Rogers, who previously played for Scarlets and became the first Wales player to score three tries against New Zealand last November. Rogers will now compete for the full-back jersey in Swansea.
Scarlets have added experienced playmaker Gareth Anscombe, who has 37 Wales caps and has featured in two World Cups, though injuries have limited his recent playing time. The 35-year-old, who previously played for both Cardiff and Ospreys, is expected to help develop the region's younger players.
Cardiff have brought in experienced former Australia prop Scott Sio, who won 74 caps for his country. He arrives from Exeter with the aim of strengthening the team's set-piece play following a heavy defeat in last season's play-offs.
Dragons had the quietest transfer window of the four regions, adding just three new players, including Samoa scrum-half Ereatara Enari, who recently won the Super Rugby title with the Hurricanes.
All four regions hope the new arrivals will help nurture young, homegrown talent in the upcoming season, even as the future number of Welsh regions remains uncertain.
