Elliot Dee: Wales hooker could make Dragons return against Stormers

Dee has failed to hit double figures for appearances in the last three seasons for Dragons because of injury misfortune.

The 56-times capped hooker, who played in all five Six Nations games in 2025, was an unused member of the Wales squad in Japan last summer.

He started against Ulster on the opening weekend but was helped from the field with his right arm in a makeshift sling.

Dee hoped to return swiftly without surgery to be a member of Steve Tandy’s first Wales squad.

“He wanted to put himself right for the autumn series,” said Tiatia.

“There was collaborative discussion around how we could get him back early but it didn’t quite work out

“Elliot ended up having an operation on his shoulder and has worked his tail off to come back as soon as possible.”

Dewi Lake, Ryan Elias, Liam Belcher and Dragons team-mates Brodie Coghlan have played for Wales in Dee’s absence.

Dragons have also been given a fitness boost by back-row forward Shane Lewis-Hughes, who suffered an ankle injury against Benetton and was initially expected to be out until mid-April.

He has not travelled to South Africa but would be ready to fly out for the Lions game if needed because of injuries.