CONFIRMED: Welsh exodus now a 'raging torrent'
NEWS: The Welsh player exodus has gone from a trickle to a torrent.
Leicester Tigers on Thursday confirmed rumours that Wales back row forward Aaron Wainwright will join the club in 2026.
His departure follows confirmation that Ospreys stars Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake will link up with Gloucester ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
The Wainwright move also means he joins a growing list of Wales internationals based in England, including Dafydd Jenkins, Louis Rees-Zammit, Tomos Williams, Rhys Carre, Nicky Smith, Nick Tompkins, Jarrod Evans, Max Llewellyn, and Freddie Thomas.
Adam Beard is currently the lone senior international playing in France, with Montpellier.
Wainwright arrives from the Dragons in Wales, where he has made 129 appearances since debuting in 2017.
He made his international debut in 2018 and has since won 62 caps in a Welsh shirt, winning a Six Nations Grand Slam and competing in two World Cup campaigns.
He will bring power, dynamism and athleticism to a back row at Tigers that already boasts international teammates Olly Cracknell and Tommy Reffell.
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Geoff Parling said as the Welshman’s addition was confirmed.
“I’m really excited for Aaron to join from next season.
“He’s an outstanding back row forward who has shown that he can consistently perform for both club and country.
“He comes with great character references and wants to improve his game.
“We look forward to him adding value to our squad and showing what he can do in a Leicester shirt.”
Discussing his decision to join Leicester Tigers, Wainwright said: “I’m really excited. When you look at the long history of success that the club has had, to be able to come into that and hopefully contribute going forward is what I can’t wait to do.
“It was a little bit surreal when I was told of the Tigers’ interest. I’ve watched the club, and I’ve seen how competitive and physical the Tigers are, and I’m buzzing to be a part of that.
“A massive draw for me was watching the games in the Premiership and seeing a packed out Mattioli Woods Welford Road. The chance to play in front of that crowd every other week is something I can’t wait for.”
The 28-year-old is the first name that will be added to Geoff Parling’s first team squad ahead of the 26-27 season.
