The Dragons RFC have continued their remarkably busy off-season recruitment drive, announcing the signing of South African prop Robert Hunt. The 28-year-old front-rower becomes the region`s 13th confirmed acquisition ahead of the new United Rugby Championship season, suggesting Rodney Parade`s revolving door is seeing significant traffic this summer.
Hunt`s career path began in South Africa, where he developed through the provincial rugby structures, featuring for sides such as the Leopards, the Bulls, and most recently, the Cheetahs. His experience lies predominantly in the tighthead prop position, a role demanding significant power and technical skill in the set piece – attributes the Dragons will undoubtedly hope he brings to their pack.
His connection to the United Rugby Championship is already established. Hunt made his debut in the competition in 2021 while representing the Cheetahs, notably featuring against Cardiff in Round 3 of that campaign. According to the report, he was also part of the Cheetahs setup during the 2021/22 season, which credits him as being a URC silver medalist during that period.
The signing of Hunt underscores the Dragons` clear intent to significantly reinforce their squad depth, particularly in the physically demanding environment of the front row. Securing their 13th new face through the door this off-season is a stark indicator of the scale of the restructuring or strengthening effort currently underway at the Welsh region. Adding a player with direct URC experience, especially one honed in the competitive South African system, is a logical step as they aim to climb the URC table.
Hunt will now integrate with his new teammates as the Dragons commence their preparations for pre-season training. His arrival adds another option and layer of experience to the forward pack, expected to be a valuable asset as the Dragons look towards the challenges of the upcoming URC campaign.
Percy Harlow