James Benjamin will make his playing comeback as rugby returns to Rodney Parade and Dragons XV tackle Munster A in the Celtic Cup on Friday evening (kick-off 7pm).
Back row Benjamin has been out of action since suffering a neck injury in February, but the 25-year-old now returns as Head Coach Luke Narraway makes seven changes to his starting line-up.
Huw Taylor joins Benjamin in a new-look back row, that also features captain Ben Roach, while Joe Davies will also make a first appearance of the season in the second row alongside Max Williams.
Prop Josh Reynolds is the final change up front as he packs down alongside Luke Yendle and Ellis Shipp.
Full back Carwyn Penny, who spent part of the summer gaining valuable experience playing club rugby in New Zealand, is handed the chance to impress in the No.15 jersey.
A new half back pairing will see scrum half Dan Babos and Jacob Botica join forces.
Head Coach Narraway said: “Munster always come with a rich pedigree and they have always played the game a certain way.
“They play the Munster way and that is being physical, they like to squeeze and pressurise teams. Obviously they can really play as well, but that is their foundation.
“We know we need to stand up to that, we need to try and impose ourselves and take that away from them.
“Hopefully we can bolt on all the nice stuff and play a fast brand of rugby which will excite the fans and get our players really looking forward to ball in hand.
“I hope the Rodney Parade factor inspires us too,” he added. “Most of these players are born within a stone’s throw of Newport and are extremely proud to represent the Dragons.
“They are looking forward to getting out at home and righting some wrongs from the Connacht game.
“I want them to enjoy the fact they are playing at Rodney Parade and hopefully in front of a good home support.”
Supporters are advised that entry to the game is £5 for adults and FREE for Under-16s. Season Members gain FREE entry as part of their new package.
Dragons XV (v Munster A): Carwyn Penny, Rio Dyer, Connor Edwards, Aneurin Owen, James McCarthy, Jacob Botica, Dan Babos; Josh Reynolds, Ellis Shipp, Luke Yendle, Joe Davies, Max Williams, Ben Roach (c), James Benjamin, Huw Taylor
Replacements: Will Griffiths, Jack Cosgrove, Garin Harris, Ed Scragg, Ben Fry, Dafydd Buckland, Evan Lloyd, Owen Jenkins
Most of these players are born within a stone’s throw of Newport and are extremely proud to represent the Dragons...
