Hill is recalled in the second row – to partner Lewis Evans - as Head Coach Bernard Jackman makes five changes to the side that claimed a bonus point win in Romanian against Timisoara Saracens in Round One.
Aaron Wainwright, this week named by Warren Gatland in the Wales’ squad for the autumn internationals, returns in the back row.
Jordan Williams is named at full back while wing Jared Rosser is fit to take his place on the wing. The final change sees Rhodri Williams return at scrum half.
First team trio Tavis Knoyle, Daf Howells and Nic Cudd are not selected as they had a recovery week.
Bernard Jackman said: “Northampton need little introduction after we met in pre-season and I’m sure the Saints will see the game as do-or-die if they want to qualify.
“Last weekend they came up against a Clermont side that have toppled all before them in the Top14. However, I watched Northampton live at Bristol earlier this season and they are a quality side.
“They have a new coach in Chris Boyd, who will be eager to put his stamp on the team, and a strong pedigree in this competition, as two-time winners. The game will be a good barometer of where we are.
“Friday night games at Rodney Parade are always special occasions and I’m sure this will be no exception with a big English Premiership team coming over the bridge to face us.”
Tickets to the European Challenge Cup clash on home soil remain on sale NOW. Click HERE to buy and join us under the lights at Rodney Parade.
Dragons (v Northampton Saints): Jordan Williams, Zane Kirchner, Tyler Morgan, Jarryd Sage, Jared Rosser, Josh Lewis, Rhodri Williams; Brok Harris, Elliot Dee, Leon Brown, Lewis Evans, Cory Hill (c), Aaron Wainwright, Ollie Griffiths, Ross Moriarty
Replacements: Richard Hibbard, Aaron Jarvis, Lloyd Fairbrother, Matthew Screech, Huw Taylor, Rhodri Davies, Adam Warren, Will Talbot-Davies
