Wales centre Watkin signs new Ospreys deal

Owen Watkin played for Bryncethin during his time on the Ospreys' pathway

Owen Watkin has signed a new contract to remain with Ospreys.

The centre, 28, is expected to be sidelined until the start of next season after sustaining a serious injury during Wales' Six Nations defeat by France on 31 January.

But the 43-cap Wales international has followed in the footsteps of Jac Morgan, Dewi Lake and Gareth Thomas in putting pen to paper on a new deal with the west Wales-based side.

"I'm delighted to be extending my time with the Ospreys. This is an ambitious club, full of ambitious players, all trying to push each other to be the best version of themselves," said Watkin.

"I've spent my whole career at this club, and what has always been a key determiner for me in that is the atmosphere. Coming to work every day here, with the boys we have, is a privilege.

"I was gutted to have picked up an injury on Wales duty, but I'm looking forward to returning and pulling on the black jersey with some of my best mates."

Watkin has featured 121 times for Ospreys and played in all five matches as Wales secured a Six Nations Grand Slam under Warren Gatland in 2019.

"Owen is another excellent example of our successful pathway programme, not just from a playing viewpoint, but from a character perspective also," said Ospreys head coach Mark Jones.

"Having a centre that's as influential on both sides of the ball, as he is, is crucial in modern rugby, and we're really happy that he sees his future at our club.

"We see Owen as an important piece of our puzzle going forward, especially from a leadership perspective, so it's great for us to have secured his signature."