Dragons have surprises for Patchell in URC opener
Dragons aim to start the season strongly when they face Wayne Pivac's Benetton in the first round of matches in the United Rugby Championship.
The Rodney Parade club, Dragons, are set to kick off the 2026-27 United Rugby Championship (URC) season against Treviso on Friday. This marks the beginning of a new era for the Italian side, as they welcome former Wales coach Rhys Patchell as one of their assistants. Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia expressed optimism, stating that they have "a couple of things up our sleeve" that they aim to add to their game this season.
The club aims to move away from their recent struggles in the URC, finishing 15th last year, and instead target the play-offs. The team will be without several key players, including co-captains Ben Carter and Angus O'Brien, as well as Dillon Lewis and Harri Keddie. However, they do have new additions in former Tonga wing Anzelo Tuitavuki, who makes his Dragons debut as a starter, and co-captain Rhys Dyer.
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