Newport Gwent Dragons' Rhys Oakley is hoping that his performances for Wales at this month's Commonwealth Games can help him win a contract for next season.

Oakley is out of contract at the end of this term and this back-row forward is yet to be offered a new deal.

The 25-year-old is still hopeful that he can convince the management at the Rodney Parade club that he is worthy of a new deal.

And he feels that performing well for Wales in the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne (March 15-26).

He said: "My position with the Dragons remains the same. I'm still out of contract with the Dragons at the end of the season and I'm still trying to win a new contract for next season.

"Playing well for Wales at the Sevens tournament in Melbourne is the perfect chance to do that, it can only improve my chances."

Wales have recently re-entered the Sevens circuit having competed in both Dubai and Georgetown over Christmas.

And Oakley reckons that Sevens rugby can only improve Wales' rugby skills.

He said: "Sevens rugby is here to stay and I can see a real enthusiasm for it.

"If we keep on bettering ourselves and keep on improving then we can create an interest for the sport.

"Playing it can only make you a better player and that is healthy for the game.

"It is the same basic skills as 15-a-side rugby, but you have to be so precise in those skills, and that sharpens you up as a player. Any mistakes will be punished."

Wales fly out to Melbourne on Sunday and Oakley is confident they can come home with their heads held high.

Dai Rees' side, who are captained by Richie Pugh of the Ospreys, also have Kenya and Namibia in their group.

The competition takes place at the Telstra Dome which has sold out for the Sevens tournament which takes place on March 16, 17.

He said: "New Zealand is obviously our toughest game but the other two are winnable."

Wales also include Dragons star Gareth Wyatt but fellow Dragons player Jamie Ringer has pulled out because of a knee injury, with Oakley replacing him.

Wales squad: Richie Pugh (Ospreys, capt), Rhys Williams (Cardiff Blues), Rhodri McAtee (Penzance), James Hook (Ospreys), James Merriman (Gloucester), Jonathan Edwards (Llanelli Scarlets), Rhys Oakley (Newport Gwent Dragons), Robin Sowden-Taylor (Cardiff Blues), Wayne Evans (Cardiff Blues), Gareth Wyatt (Newport Gwent Dragons), Tal Selley (Llanelli Scarlets), Jonathan Vaughton (Ospreys).