DRAGONS boss Dai Flanagan has hailed Bradley Roberts’ total commitment after the Wales hooker’s enforced retirement.

The 28-year-old, who made his Test debut in 2021 and scored a try when winning the last of his five caps in France in the 2023 Six Nations, has hung up his boots on the advice of specialists after a serious back injury.

Roberts made the last of his 27 Dragons appearances against the Sharks in January and spent two seasons at Rodney Parade, scoring seven tries.

The five-times capped front rower was a firm favourite thanks to packing a punch with ball in hand despite his 5ft 10ins frame.

FAREWELL: Former Dragons and Wales hooker Bradley Roberts has retiredFAREWELL: Former Dragons and Wales hooker Bradley Roberts has retired (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

Head coach Flanagan said: “Brad leaves us with our best wishes for the future and thanks for his efforts during his time as a Dragon.

“Bradley has always given his absolute all to the cause – something that has seen fans of every club he has represented take him to their hearts – and it is that belief, drive, and talent that has seen him play successfully at the very highest level.

“We look forward to seeing what the next chapter holds for him and welcoming him back to Rodney Parade in the years to come.”

Roberts played for the Sharks academy before heading to RGC in Colwyn Bay, Rainey Old Boys in Northern Ireland and Ulster before his move to the Dragons.

His contract expired at the end of last season and his injury denied him the chance to either push for a new deal, albeit it would have had to be on reduced terms, or explore other options.

Roberts returned for pre-season training to continue to rehab the injury while plotting his next career move outside rugby.

The Dragons have Wales hooker Elliot Dee, stalwart James Benjamin, new recruit from Exeter Oli Burrows and up-and-comers Brodie Coghlan and Sam Scarfe as their options at hooker.