Wales international Ross Moriarty could make his comeback in Friday’s pre-season date with Bristol Bears – but the final call will depend in when he becomes a dad for the first time!
Moriarty has not played for Dragons since injuring his knee in the league fixture at Cell C Sharks in South Africa in April and miss the Welsh summer tour to South Africa as he recovered.
The 28-year-old could now return on Friday evening while Leon Brown is back training and Aaron Wainwright continues to make positive progress as he targets the start of the season.
However, boss Dean Ryan has revealed Moriarty’s involvement will all depend on when the back row ace becomes a father for the first time.
“Ross' challenge at the moment is being there for his baby, which is due this week and he hasn't travelled with us (to Dublin), said Ryan.
“He is keen to play and we will see - we are on two different timelines.
“If he is available, it will be fantastic for us, if not then fantastic because they will be parents! We will wait and see.”
Will Rowlands, Ben Carter and Taine Basham have all linked up for training this week after summer exploits with Wales and their return to play will be outlined next week.
Ryan said: “They are on their first week back and I am meeting with Wayne Pivac on Monday around plans and how we integrate them back.
“Obviously Will is the one with the high volume across the last year while we will have a conversation around Ben and Taine to see what their views are.”
One player who is does miss the game will be Aneurin Owen after a hamstring tweak while wing Ashton Hewitt is also set to be held back to ensure he is firing for the new season.
“Nye had a little tweak on a hamstring. He was back in full training but has backed off a little bit,” revealed Ryan.
“It's nothing related to the break in his foot, probably more related to the time he had off his feet.
“Ashton is flying, he will probably be involved against Wasps next week.
“He is busting to play and we will hold him back a little bit because he has been keen to get on the field for a long time.”
Watch Dragons RFC in the pre-season opener with Bristol Bears at Rodney Parade on Friday (kick-off 7pm).
Tickets are just £10 for adults and £5 for Under-16s. Season Members gain FREE entry!
Click HERE to buy online or call 01633 670690 to book your place!
If he is available, it will be fantastic for us, if not then fantastic because they will be parents! We will wait and see...
