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Page last updated at 09:31 GMT, Wednesday, 14 April 2010 10:31 UK

Tom Willis & Gavin Thomas deal boost for Dragons

Tom Willis and Gavin Thomas
Tom Willis and Gavin Thomas are key members of the Dragons pack

Captain Tom Willis and fellow forward Gavin Thomas have both signed new two-year deals at Newport Gwent Dragons.

New Zealander Willis and former Wales flanker Thomas have been lynchpins of the Dragons pack this term.

"When I came here, I felt this was a young team who wanted to develop and improve," said hooker Willis.

"I felt that I could help contribute towards this growth. I am pleased that I am going to continue to be part of this development."

Willis signed for the Rodney Parade region from Super 14 side Waikato Chiefs two years ago and the All Black, who has played 41 times for the Dragons, hopes to improve the team's "considerable" progress.

"Over the past two seasons I feel we have made considerable progress and this has been reflected in our performances this season," said 30-year-old Willis.

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"The team here has a great spirit and all are looking to improve both individually and as a unit."

Former Scarlets openside, who has won 22 caps for Wales, has extended his one-year stay for another two years.

"I have really enjoyed playing for the team this year and it's been great to have got a run of games under my belt," he said.

"There's a great team sprit here and I am delighted that I am going to be a part of it over the next two seasons."

The forward pair have been instrumental in the Dragons' charge towards the Magners League play-off as Paul Turner's men bid for a return to the Heineken Cup.

"It is great news that both these players have agreed contract extensions with us," said rugby manager Robert Beale.

"Tom has been an excellent captain for us both on and off the field whilst Gavin has also been a major performer for us this season.

"They are key players in terms of performances on the pitch and the experience they bring to the organisation and in helping develop our younger players.

"We are looking to continue with this development and growth and I am confident both players will be key contributors to this over the next two years."



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see also
Flanker Lydiate suffers season KO
14 Apr 10 |  Welsh
Jones signs new deal with Dragons
02 Mar 10 |  NG Dragons
Dragons sign Wales flanker Thomas
07 Jul 09 |  Welsh
Kiwi Willis made Dragons captain
05 Aug 08 |  NG Dragons
Dragons sign Kiwi hooker Willis
12 May 08 |  NG Dragons
BBC Sport Wales coverage
03 Oct 11 |  Wales
RaboDirect Pro12
11 Apr 07 |  Rugby Union
Heineken Cup
11 Apr 07 |  Rugby Union
Anglo-Welsh Cup
11 Apr 07 |  Rugby Union


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