Newport Gwent Dragons are able to confirm that they have today been notified by the player’s agent that he is to sign for Bath Rugby next season.
This follows the refusal by Warren Gatland to sanction a transfer request by the Dragons for the remainder of this season at the end of the Rugby World Cup. In light of this decision, Taulupe made it known in mid-November that his preferred option was to sign a National Dual Contract and remain with the Dragons.
Whilst there then followed a period where it was not known whether such a contract would be made available, in the last week or so negotiations have commenced between the Welsh Rugby Union and the player’s agent on this matter.
Chief Executive Stuart Davies commented as follows, “We welcomed Taulupe announcing his desire to stay at the Dragons, since he has consistently stated that he would not wish to play for any other Welsh region. Following the failed move to Bath this season, it was our sincere hope that negotiations with the Union would be concluded successfully and we would retain him with the support of a NDC. As such we were willing to support the negotiation process in whatever way was necessary.
“This is the worst possible outcome for us given all that has gone before, and it leaves us feeling extremely disappointed as well as significantly worse off financially.
“It remains the case that such is his professionalism that I have no concerns about Taulupe’s contribution for the remainder of the season, and it goes without saying that he will always be welcome here after his departure. We will now consider how best to invest elsewhere the money set aside for Taulupe’s next contract.”
