The Dragons have signed Kiwi Super Rugby star Sio Tomkinson from the Highlanders. The 25-year-old outside centre - who also covers the wing – will come on board ahead of next season.
Born in Dunedin, he represented New Zealand at Schools and U20s level, starting his senior career with Otago before progressing to the Highlanders, making his Super Rugby debut in 2017 and going on to make more than 40 appearances in the competition. He is known for his aggressive defence, his range of skills and his potency with ball in hand.
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Director of rugby Dean Ryan said: "We are really pleased we have been able to secure his services. He’s an outstanding Super Rugby player. It’s a really exciting recruitment. I think when Dragons fans see him they will be over the moon.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for us to bring over a player with a huge attacking threat and strike power from the southern hemisphere. He is very aggressive both sides of the ball.
"Sio has impressed throughout his time in Super Rugby and is now excited about a new chapter and making a big impact with us. We look forward to welcoming him and his family to Wales and to him making Rodney Parade his new home."
Tomkinson has played 43 games for the Highlanders in all, scoring 14 tries, but is yet to feature in the new Super Rugby Pacific competition as he continues to rehab from a foot injury sustained in the 2021 NPC Final.
"I am looking forward to heading over to Wales later in the year to join up with the Dragons," he said. "Since leaving school, I have been fortunate to be involved in professional rugby and played for two New Zealand teams: The Highlanders and Otago Rugby. I have made some great friends and both teams mean a lot to me, but it’s time for a new chapter and I’m excited about taking this opportunity at the Dragons.
"Dean Ryan has spoken to me about the direction the team is moving, and I want to be a part of this. I look forward to travelling to Newport later in 2022 to connect with the coaches, players, and the loyal supporters of the Dragons."
Tomkinson is the latest in a lengthy list of signings by the Gwent region for next season, following on from Bath centre Max Clark, Ospreys prop Rhodri Jones, Ulster hooker Brad Roberts, London Irish lock George Nott, Exeter forward Sean Lonsdale and Clermont Auvergne utility back JJ Hanrahan.
