GWENT Dragons star Rhys Oakley will complete a remarkable six months in his life when he steps out for Wales at Lans-downe Road on Saturday.

Steve Hansen's side take on the Irish in their own backyard this weekend but, for Oakley, the game will signal a remarkable turn in fortunes as he becomes the first Gwent Dragons player to play for Wales.

In May, the 22-year-old was facing up to life in the English First Division having been relegated with Bristol from the Zurich Premiership and gave up hope of ever playing international rugby.

"Saturday will be a dream come true and will cap off a remarkable last six months for me," said Oakley.

"I was absolutely devastated when Bristol went down last season and I thought I'd be playing First Division rugby this term.

"But then Gwent came in for me last month and, for that, I will always be thankful to Mike Ruddock.

"I'd obviously been keeping tabs on the new regional situation in Wales and was very impressed with Gwent so I jumped at the chance.

"I was just getting used to life with Gwent when Steve Hansen called me into the Wales training squad which was a great honour, but to be starting my first game will be amazing."

English-born Oakley, who lives in Thornbury, qualifies for the Principality courtesy of Welsh parents.

And although Oakley did harbour ambitions of playing for Clive Woodward's side, things never worked out and England's loss will surely be Wales gain.

"I played for England Youth but never made it into the under-21 side and I guess, had I stayed at Bristol, that would not have changed.

"But I've moved to Gwent and I never really thought twice about playing for Wales considering my family links with the country."

But, although Saturday's game will be an emotional affair, it certainly won't be the highlight of what has been a roller-coaster last six months.

"So much has happened and Saturday will be the biggest game of my life but it won't compare to becoming a father.

"Two-and-half-months ago, I became a father having a baby boy called Cole and that will always rank as the best day of my life.

"But I'm sure stepping out for Wales will come a close second."