Dragons sign Tonga back row Solomone Funaki

Dragons have confirmed that Tonga international Solomone Funaki will be joining the Welsh province ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Funaki started his professional rugby career with Hawke's Bay in 2018. After successful performances for the provincial side, he moved to Super Rugby side Moana Pasifika ahead of the 2022 season.

The 30-year-old made his Tonga debut in 2021 and has 15 Test caps to his name. He also had represented them in the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

“We’re excited that Solomone is moving to the Dragons and look forward to the massive impact we know he can make with us," said Dragons head coach Dai Flanagan.

“He’s a tough and uncompromising man, someone who always wins collisions, and his ability to play across the back row will mean other players can thrive around him.

“I’ve spoken to a number of people who know and have played alongside Solomone and they have nothing but praise for him as both a person and performer.

“He’s a family man and a real leader of men, with international and Super Rugby experience. “We look forward to Solomone making his journey over to us and wish him well in the remaining weeks of the Super Rugby season.”