Dragons Rugby have announced that lock Ben Carter and versatile back Angus O’Brien will remain co-captains for the 2025–26 season, a decision hailed as a commitment to continuity and leadership stability.
Carter, still only 24, has accumulated 66 regional appearances since his debut in 2020 and earned 14 Wales caps.
His progress was briefly hampered this summer when he suffered a head injury just 34 seconds into Wales’ first Test against Japan, but his resilience and popularity within the squad ensured his standing as a leader remained undiminished.
O’Brien, 30, brings extensive experience across fly-half and full-back, surpassing the 100-game mark for the Dragons during his second spell with the region.
Both players guided the team through last year’s United Rugby Championship and European Challenge Cup campaigns, earning respect for their contrasting yet complementary leadership styles.
Head coach Filo Tiatia praised the duo for their balance: Carter is admired for his quiet authority, work rate, and professionalism, while O’Brien is valued for his tactical awareness, communication, and calm under pressure.
The Dragons see the shared captaincy model as a means of fostering inclusivity, spreading responsibility, and reinforcing collective standards.
Supporters have welcomed the decision, noting the duo’s local roots and long-term commitment to the club.
As the Dragons prepare for another challenging campaign against Europe’s top clubs, Carter and O’Brien will be tasked not only with leading on-field performances but also mentoring younger squad members.
Their partnership symbolizes a broader cultural shift at the club: empowering leaders from within and ensuring long-term growth, stability, and competitiveness in Welsh rugby.
Carter, still only 24, has accumulated 66 regional appearances since his debut in 2020 and earned 14 Wales caps.
His progress was briefly hampered this summer when he suffered a head injury just 34 seconds into Wales’ first Test against Japan, but his resilience and popularity within the squad ensured his standing as a leader remained undiminished.
O’Brien, 30, brings extensive experience across fly-half and full-back, surpassing the 100-game mark for the Dragons during his second spell with the region.
Both players guided the team through last year’s United Rugby Championship and European Challenge Cup campaigns, earning respect for their contrasting yet complementary leadership styles.
Head coach Filo Tiatia praised the duo for their balance: Carter is admired for his quiet authority, work rate, and professionalism, while O’Brien is valued for his tactical awareness, communication, and calm under pressure.
The Dragons see the shared captaincy model as a means of fostering inclusivity, spreading responsibility, and reinforcing collective standards.
Supporters have welcomed the decision, noting the duo’s local roots and long-term commitment to the club.
As the Dragons prepare for another challenging campaign against Europe’s top clubs, Carter and O’Brien will be tasked not only with leading on-field performances but also mentoring younger squad members.
Their partnership symbolizes a broader cultural shift at the club: empowering leaders from within and ensuring long-term growth, stability, and competitiveness in Welsh rugby.
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