How Wainwright became a Dragons great ahead of Parade goodbye

Wales back row Aaron Wainwright will move to Leicester after nine seasons with Dragons [Huw Evans Picture Agency] Aaron Wainwright will carry out his Rodney Parade routine one last time when playing his penultimate Dragons game against Edinburgh on Saturday (19:45 BST). The Wales number eight will leave his Rogerstone home, drive to Maindee Primary School, park up, get a coffee from the nearby coffee shop on the banks of the Usk and stroll to the home changing room. After 136 appearances, Wainwright is poised for a final fixture in Newport in front of the Dragons faithful in the United Rugby Championship (URC).

The 28-year-old will then aim to sign off with victory at Scarlets before his summer move to Leicester. "There's nothing like going to Rodney Parade and seeing the terrace and the stands full of fans," said Wainwright, who has only played one home game since his Tigers move was confirmed in mid-January. "I don't normally get too emotional, I suppose we will have to wait and see, but I have been here my whole career.

"I've got to concentrate on going out there and giving the fans something to shout and cheer about. Let's get Rodney Parade bouncing and get a win. " How do Dragons take next step after turnaround?

Wales great Halfpenny to retire from rugby Montpellier defeat Dragons to set up Ulster final Wainwright has endured plenty of tough times at Dragons but also enjoyed many highs in Newport, with derby wins and a memorable first try against Russian side Enisei-STM in his ninth game. A move to Welford Road looms after enjoying his time at another historic - and atmospheric - rugby ground. "The thing that I will remember the most is just being able to connect and cheer with the fans after the games," he said.