Rising Star Taine Basham Commits Future to the Dragons
The Welsh rugby union scene has been bolstered by the news that rising star Taine Basham has committed his future to the Dragons. As reported by BBC Rugby Union, the 24-year-old flanker, who has already earned 17 international caps for the Wales national team, has signed a new contract to remain with the Welsh region.
Basham, an academy product of the Dragons, had attracted interest from English clubs, but the young talent has chosen to stay true to his Gwent roots. Head coach Dai Flanagan expressed the organization’s delight, stating that retaining “our best homegrown talent in Gwent” is a cause for celebration among the team’s loyal supporters.
The flanker’s decision to extend his stay with the Dragons joins fellow Wales internationals Aaron Wainwright and Rio Dyer in signing new deals before the 2024-25 season. Flanagan emphasized the importance of keeping such key figures within the team, as they continue to make a significant impact both at the regional and national levels.
“It’s great to see him show his very best form in recent games.”
- Dai Flanagan, Dragons Head Coach
Basham, who made his Dragons debut in 2018 and earned his first senior Wales cap in 2021, has quickly established himself as a pivotal player for both club and country. The coach praised the player’s passion for the Dragons, noting that it has been “great to see him show his very best form in recent games.”
With his future now secured, Basham is eager to build on his successful career with the Welsh region, expressing his excitement to continue playing for the Dragons and hopefully reaching the milestone of 100 appearances. The young flanker acknowledged the unwavering support of the team’s devoted fans, stating that pulling on the jersey means “a massive amount” to him as a Gwent native.
As the rugby union season enters its final stretch, the news of Basham’s contract extension will undoubtedly bolster the Dragons’ ambitions and provide a boost of confidence for the team’s faithful supporters. The continued development and retention of homegrown talents like Basham are crucial for the long-term success of Welsh rugby, as the nation looks ahead to the upcoming 2023 Rugby World Cup final.
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