Bedford to skipper Dragons young-guns

The 27-year-old will lead the side in the absence of club captain Luke Charteris, who is on Wales duty, and stand-in skipper Tom Willis, who is rested after starting all six RaboDirect Pro12 encounters.

Bedford has so far shared number nine duties with Wayne Evans with the pair enjoying three starts apiece.

Not only has the Yorkshireman got the nod for Saturday’s encounter with Bath but he will lead out his new side for the first time.

"I am really honoured to be asked only seven games into the season," said Bedford. "It’s a great opportunity to step forward.

"I captained Rotherham and Leeds a few times and I enjoy the responsaibilty.

"At scrum-half you are always in the thick of the action, so I think that it’s a good position to captain the side from."

Experienced players are outnumbered by young guns for the encounter with Bath.

A host of fringe players are set to get their chance to impress while there is a welcome return to fitness for lock Scott Morgan and number eight Tom Brown, who will back up Hugo Ellis from the bench.

There are three ‘uncapped’ Dragons players in their 23-man squad – wing/centre Luke Williams (Cross Keys), hooker Sam Parry (Newport) and lock Royce Cadman (Bedwas) – while another 12 have not yet made it into double figures when it comes to appearances for the region.

But Bedford believes the new boys will relish their chance to shine at the Parade.

He said: "I was surprised when I arrived at the Dragons that I was the oldest back in the squad at 27! Luckily Tonderai Chavhanga has come in and is a little bit older.

"But I have trained with these guys through the season and they are chomping at the bit. They will be looking to take their chance and show the coaches what they can do.

"I admire that in the Welsh game young players play every single week, whether for the Dragons or in the Premiership.

"They are all battle-hardened and when they step into this side they will be ready physically."