THE Dragons have signed Cameron Jones on a short-term loan from the Ospreys to cover for injuries at loosehead prop.
The Rodney Parade club have brought in the 23-year-old and he will be on the bench for tomorrow's United Rugby Championship clash against the Lions, backing up Argentina international Rodrigo Martinez.
Jones is an imposing front rower at 6ft 4ins and made his Ospreys debut against the Lions in January before having a loan spell with the Cheetahs in South Africa.
The former Wales Under-20s international signed a new contract in May so it is very much a temporary move east.
The Dragons have been left vulnerable at loosehead due to long-term injuries to the young duo of Dylan Kelleher-Griffiths and Jordan Morris.
Wales prop Rhodri Jones has a knock to his knee and Josh Reynolds, who would have loved another shot in the first team, has a leg problem.
Head coach Dai Flanagan said: “We’re pleased to be able to bring in Cameron on a short-term loan and our thanks go to Toby Booth and Ospreys for help in facilitating this move that will benefit all parties.
“Cameron is highly regarded at Ospreys and will give us much needed depth to our front row with a number of players currently sidelined through injured.”
The Ospreys also hope to profit from their promising prop getting more senior experience.
Head coach Toby Booth said: “We are always looking for the best opportunities to develop players. Dragons reached out and asked if we would help them out.
“We are pleased we could offer support during a crucial time, whilst facilitating Cam’s development. After it was discussed with Cam, and he was excited about it, it was imperative to get it done to maximise his development time.
“We all look forward to seeing how he goes whilst with the Dragons and are pleased to be able to help our Welsh neighbours.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here