DRAGONS full-back Huw Anderson has gone from starring for Pontypool in Super Rygbi Cymru to training with Wales stars ahead of the autumn internationals.
The 20-year-old from Caerphilly has been invited to train with Warren Gatland’s squad ahead of the Principality Stadium internationals against Fiji, Australia and South Africa along with Scarlets centre Macs Page.
Anderson is not an official squad member or anywhere near a Test call-up but has been given a chance to experience Test camp.
Young prospects are often invited to work alongside the established Wales campaigners and it is a sign of the full-back’s potential.
Anderson was released from international duty at the Under-20s Six Nations last season to make his Dragons debut off the bench at Ulster.
He featured for the Rodney Parade club against Hartpury, Bristol and Bath in pre-season after recovering from an illness that ended his World Rugby U20 Championship campaign after just one game.
Anderson, who spent several days in hospital in South Africa with the virus, has been backed to push for more United Rugby Championship action this season.
“It’s pleasing that he has been able to put that illness behind him and show the player that I certainly know he is,” he told the Argus in September.
“Young players in speed positions potentially have more opportunities to make the step up earlier but you still have to be talented. Huw will play URC this season, I would put money on that.”
He will aim to put the heat on Angus O'Brien and Cai Evans for the 15 jersey, although a spot on the wing might be more attainable in the short-term.
Anderson has made four appearances for Pooler in SRC so far this campaign and caught the eye as they finished the first block with an impressive win at Swansea last time out.
He will be one of the young prospects aiming to give Dai Flanagan and his coaching team a nudge when the Dragons take on the Scarlets in a development fixture next weekend.
The game at Rodney Parade on Saturday, November 9 (kick-off 2.30pm) is free for season ticket holders with general admission costing £5 for adults and £1 for juniors. Only the Bisley Stand will be open with unreserved seating.
The Dragons are next in action in the URC at Cardiff on November 30 as they attempt to bounce back from a frustrating first block.
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