Scarlets to face Dragons with Tom Rogers returning from injury at Principality Stadium

The Dragons are set to welcome back their seasoned leaders Ben Carter and Angus O’Brien for their pivotal showdown against the Scarlets at Judgement Day, a marquee event marking its 10th anniversary at the Principality Stadium. Carter’s return is highly anticipated after a six-month hiatus caused by knee and ankle injuries that required surgery, while O’Brien also comes back from injury to bolster the squad’s backline. This match, part of the longest-running professional club rugby event in Wales, sees four changes in the Dragons’ lineup, including Jared Rosser replacing the injured Rio Dyer and Ewan Rosser stepping in at full-back for Huw Anderson. Head coach Filo Tiatia has also reinstated Scott Williams, who will face his former team, adding further intrigue to the contest.
Scarlets will counter with the return of Tom Rogers, who has recovered from a thumb injury sustained on Wales duty against Scotland, allowing Macs Page to shift to centre alongside Eddie James. The Scarlets’ lineup also features the continuing partnership of Ioan Lloyd at fly-half and Gareth Davies at scrum-half, with hooker Marnus van der Merwe and lock Alex Craig rejoining the starting side. Tiatia acknowledged the strength and resilience of the Scarlets, describing them as “a transitional team” with “good athletes right across the park,” highlighting their blend of overseas players and international experience. He emphasized the lessons learned from previous encounters, stating, “We’ve had a reminder of New Year’s Day and some of the areas we weren’t great at, so we are better.”
Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel underscored the significance of the fixture for league ambitions, noting the intensity expected from the Dragons. “The Dragons will be ultra competitive. They have some top operators and they will want to get amongst us,” Peel said, acknowledging the added pressure and excitement Judgement Day brings, especially for younger players experiencing the stadium atmosphere for the first time. The event, featuring back-to-back matches with Ospreys facing Cardiff earlier in the day, draws significant attention as a showcase of Welsh professional club rugby.
Ben Carter’s return is a major boost for the Dragons, as he has been instrumental in leadership and performance. After suffering a left knee injury during a Welsh national team training session in October, followed by ankle surgery, Carter has demonstrated remarkable dedication to his recovery. Coach Tiatia praised his influence, saying, “Ben brings a sense of calm to the team and is meticulous in his preparations, instilling confidence in those around him.” He added, “If you compare his current shape to when he was injured, it’s evident that he has put in the effort… He has been outstanding, and I am excited to have him back in action.”
The Dragons’ squad for the match includes Ewan Rosser, Ashton Hewitt, Aneurin Owen (captain), Scott Williams, Jared Rosser, Angus O’Brien, Rhodri Williams, Dylan Kelleher-Griffiths, Elliot Dee, Paula Latu, Ben Carter, Ryan Woodman, Shane Lewis-Hughes, Taine Basham, and Aaron Wainwright, with replacements ready to support. The Scarlets will field Blair Murray; Tom Rogers, Macs Page, Eddie James, Ellis Mee; Ioan Lloyd, Gareth Davies; Alec Hepburn, Marnus van der Merwe, Henry Thomas, Alex Craig, Sam Lousi, Vaea Fifita, Josh Macleod (captain), and Taine Plumtree, supported by a strong bench.
Judgement Day remains a highlight on the Welsh rugby calendar, drawing fans to witness high-stakes clashes that not only influence league standings but also celebrate the sport’s heritage and community. This year’s event continues that tradition, promising a fiercely contested battle between two teams eager to assert their dominance and build momentum as the season progresses.