Cory Hill: Dragons captain signs new contract to stay at Rodney Parade

Cory Hill began his career with Pontypridd RFC

Captain Cory Hill has signed a new two-year contract with the Dragons to remain at the region until 2020.

The Wales lock has played 85 times for the Dragons since joining in 2013 and was made captain this season by coach Bernard Jackman.

Hill played in all four matches of Wales' autumn internationals.

"Cory is a natural leader of men, despite being only 25 years old I had no hesitation in naming him our captain this season," said Jackman.

"He has broken through to being a regular in Wales squads and he is a player that we are proud to have representing the Dragons."

Hill progressed through Wales age grade teams and captained the Under-20s at the 2012 Junior World Cup in South Africa.

The Pontypridd-born lock made his regional debut as an 18-year-old in 2010 with Cardiff Blues, and a stint with Moseley followed in 2013 before he joined the Dragons.

"I had no hesitation in agreeing a new contract with the Dragons, the ambition and direction of the team is something that I am really excited about being a part of," Hill said.

"Both Bernard and David (Dragons executive chairman Buttress) have shown their determination through the signing of new players and the resigning of many other youngsters.

"There's definitely a lot to be excited about and I am chuffed to have extended my stay for another two years."

Dragons have signed Wales and British and Irish Lions pair Ross Moriarty and Richard Hibbard from Gloucester for next season.

The Gwent region have also recruited Wales internationals Rhodri Williams and Ryan Bevington, plus Jordan Williams from Bristol for next season, along with Rhodri Davies from Rotherham.