WALES lock Ben Carter has pledged to ‘put his mark on the role’ after becoming the Dragons’ second youngest club captain.

The 23-year-old from Caldicot has replaced centre Steff Hughes, who has fierce competition for a starting spot, as skipper for the upcoming season.

Carter is poised to lead the Dragons out in their final friendly against Bath at the Rec on Friday as they built towards the United Rugby Championship opener versus the Ospreys in Newport a week on Saturday.

The 12-times capped forward has made 57 appearances for the Rodney Parade club since his 2020 debut and has led the side once before, against Benetton in Treviso in October 2022.

Now he becomes the second youngest player behind stalwart centre Ashley Smith to have the honour of club captain.

LEADER: Dragons lock Ben CarterLEADER: Dragons lock Ben Carter (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“I’m really proud. This is my home club, full of talent, so it is a huge honour to be chosen to lead the side forward,” said Carter, who was skipper of the title-winning Dragons under-19s side in 2019.

“Dai [Flanagan, head coach] asked me if it was something I would be interested in, and I didn’t have to think too long. I was over the moon and I’m excited to get started.

“I came through the pathway, from the under-16s, and there are a lot of boys that I played with that are still here. I love playing with them, so it makes it more special to be chosen as captain.

“We have a great leadership team here and I know I can lean on them when I need it. I’m in a good place and looking forward to now putting my own mark on the role.”

Carter will be able to lean on the likes of Hughes, Rhodri Williams, Angus O’Brien, Harrison Keddie, George Nott and Steve Cummins for advice.

However, the promotion is also intended to bring more out of a talented player who was one of the young group invited to pick the brains of All Blacks legend Sam Whitelock at Rodney Parade this summer.

“Ben is an outstanding player and someone who has all the qualities needed to lead our club forward,” said Flanagan.

“He is a local lad who has come through the Dragons academy system and who is extremely proud every time he pulls on the jersey for Dragons.

“Ben is an international who is hugely respected by his peers and has the full support of the players and coaching team.

"He represents our future, a new beginning, and is a strong voice who will thrive in the role.”