Centre Joe Westwood signs three-year contract with Dragons

The 20-year-old, who can also play in the back three, made his debut for the club off the bench against the Sharks in January and then made a first start against Ulster in Belfast.

Westwood is an imposing figure at 6ft 3ins and 16st, and has been earmarked by Dai Flanagan to be a long-term contender at 13 for the Dragons.

“It’s great news that Joe has signed a long-term deal with us as we firmly see him as a future 13 for our club,” said the head coach.

Dragons prospect Joe Westwood (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“He is a big man and great athlete, built to be a modern-day rugby player, and he has a fantastic skillset from his time playing in multiple positions in junior rugby.

“Joe is an exciting prospect for this club, and we look forward to seeing how he develops and pushes on in the coming seasons.”

Westwood’s grandfather Keith played full-back and centre for Newbridge and Ebbw Vale, and faced the 1963 All Blacks, before coaching Abercarn, ‘Bridge, Ebbw, Newport and Monmouthshire.

His father Jonathan is a former Wales Under-21s international who played for Newbridge, Newport, Neath and Cardiff, then was director of rugby when Cross Keys won the WRU National Cup in 2012.

Joe came through at Blackwood RFC and has featured for Ebbw Vale and Newport in the Premiership, with Flanagan keen for the prospect to keep getting game time whatever the level to develop his game.

Westwood, who has made four Dragons appearances, said: “I’ve really enjoyed the chance to represent the club this season and my focus now is on taking every opportunity that I can earn.”