The Dragons have announced a notable addition to their ranks ahead of the upcoming rugby season, securing highly promising Wales international Mackenzie Martin on loan from Cardiff. The move sees Martin, one of Welsh rugby’s most exciting young talents, make the journey from the capital to Newport’s Rodney Parade for the duration of the forthcoming campaign.
Martin’s arrival comes at a pivotal time for the Dragons, who endured a challenging 2024/25 season with only two wins on the board. The region’s new head coach, Filo Tiatia, who took the reins from Dai Flanagan last October, appears keen to revamp his squad by incorporating ambitious talent capable of making an immediate impact. Martin’s signature, confirmed after fierce speculation in recent days, is a significant statement of intent from the Men of Gwent.
Standing at an imposing 6ft 5ins and weighing 116kg, Martin brings considerable size and physicality to the Dragons pack. His primary position is at No 8, though he has demonstrated versatility by slotting in as a lock in recent outings for Cardiff RFC in Super Rygbi Cymru. The 21-year-old’s potential was recognised early when he made his debut for Cardiff in the BKT United Rugby Championship against the DHL Stormers in late 2023, and his subsequent call-up to the national squad ahead of the 2024 Six Nations marked him as one to watch. Since then, he has amassed five Test caps for Wales—a noteworthy achievement at such a young age.
Despite his rapid ascent to the international stage, Martin found opportunities limited at Cardiff, where he predominantly featured for their semi-professional side rather than the regional first team. The loan move to Dragons is widely seen as a chance for the young forward to accelerate his development and compete at United Rugby Championship (URC) level with greater regularity. It is also expected to give Wales head coach Warren Gatland further insight into Martin’s ability to adapt and thrive under a new coaching setup.
Filo Tiatia, who is entering his first full pre-season as head coach, spoke enthusiastically about Martin’s potential impact: “We’re looking forward to welcoming Mackenzie into our environment, and I know he is very motivated to make a big impression. Mackenzie is an international-class back row forward who will only raise the competition among our squad for the No 8 position, alongside the likes of Aaron Wainwright, Solomone Funaki and Harrison Keddie.”
The Dragons’ back row is already considered one of the strongest parts of their squad, with established players such as Wainwright, Thomas Young, Ryan Woodman, Shane Lewis-Hughes, and Harri Keddie all in contention for a starting place. Martin will have to prove his worth to secure a regular spot, but his robust playing style and international experience may give him a valuable edge as competition for places intensifies.
Martin is the Dragons’ tenth new recruit in what has been a busy transfer window for the club. He joins the likes of Fetuli Paea, Tinus de Beer, Wyn Jones, Dillon Lewis, Fine Inisi, Levi Douglas, Seb Davies, Harry Beddall, and Thomas Young as fresh faces in Newport, with further signings reportedly on the horizon as Tiatia looks to reshape the squad.
Supporters and pundits alike will be eager to see how Martin adapts to his new surroundings—and whether this loan spell can serve as a springboard for both the player and the region. Dragons fans will be hoping that Martin’s arrival not only bolsters their forward pack but also signals the beginning of a more competitive era under Tiatia’s stewardship.
As Welsh rugby grapples with ongoing changes at domestic and international level, the spotlight will inevitably focus on young stars like Martin whose development could shape the national team’s future. For now, all eyes will be on Rodney Parade to see how this high-profile signing fares in the weeks and months to come.