Smith and Prydie re-sign deals with Gwent region

Newport Gwent Dragons are delighted to announce the contract extensions of centre Ashley Smith and Welsh International Tom Prydie for another three years.

Newport born Smith is a Dragons academy product and has been with the region since the 2005/2006 season. The centre has been part of the men of Gwent for nine seasons and has made 145 appearances for the region. The 27-year-old's talent was identified by coaches at an early age and made Dragons history by becoming the youngest player to captain the region at just 21, against Gloucester in 2008.

Commenting on his recent contract renewal, Ashley Smith said, "I am delighted to have been able to re-sign for another three years with my home town club.

"Under Lyn's guidance the club is going places and will become very successful in the coming seasons. I look forward to what the future holds with the Dragons and being part of its success."

International Tom Prydie broke onto the rugby scene when he was just 17 when he played for rival Welsh region the Ospreys. Originally from Bridgend the 22-year-old stayed at the Ospreys for just three seasons before being loaned to London Wasps in 2011/2012. After his stint at Wasps, he was named in the Wales U20s squad for the 2012 Junior World Championships in South Africa before moving to the Dragons.

Commenting on re-signing for the club, Tom Prydie said, "I am pleased that I have re-signed for the Newport Gwent Dragons. I am really looking forward to being here over the next three seasons alongside the rest of the squad.

"Lyn has a really positive outlook on the next few seasons for the region and I look forward to what the future holds here."

On signing both of the players director of rugby Lyn Jones added, "I am delighted that both Ashley and Tom are extending their contracts with us for another three seasons.

"Ashley is an integral part of the squad here at Rodney Parade and has proved to be a strong and natural leader both on and off the pitch. He has had a great season with us and I look forward to working with him over the seasons to come."Tom has shown great promise throughout his time with the region and I am looking forward to working with him over the coming seasons. He delivers and responds to everything the coaches and I throw at him, he has great potential as a player and I hope that he realises that himself."