NEWPORT Gwent Dragons have received a boost with star winger Tonderai Chavhanga expected to be fit for Saturday’s opening Amlin Challenge Cup clash of the season.

The South Africa international is due to figure in the region’s visit to Wasps in what will be his first game in six months.

The 28-year-old hasn’t played since suffering a knee injury in the Dragons’ away defeat to the Ospreys in April.

The game-breaker underwent an operation for the damage and has been badly missed by the side.

The Zimbabwe-born flyer’s knack of conjuring a try out of nothing means he is a huge asset. His teammates will look to him for inspiration as they seek solace in Europe after a disappointing league campaign so far.

The Dragons are currently one from bottom with two wins and four defeats from their six Pro 12 games to date.

They should also have the services of young outside-half Lewis Robling this weekend after he missed last Friday’s bitterly disappointing 24-13 away defeat at the Scarlets.

The 21-year-old is due back after he cut his knee in training last week.

The Dragons continue to suffer serious injury problems with at least ten players out.

Wing Mike Poole and back rower Andrew Coombs (both knee) are not expected to return until between four to six weeks.

Back row is a major headache with blindside ace Dan Lydiate not expected back until late February after breaking a bone above his left ankle last month in the 32-12 home victory over Edinburgh.

Openside Darren Waters and utility back rower Hywel Stoddart (both knee) are expected to be out for the season.

The Dragons are down to just two fit locks still with Rob Sidoli not due back for several weeks as he battles to overcome a calf problem.

Also missing are scrum halves Joe Bedford (out for at least another five weeks with his shoulder) and Wayne Evans (uncertain because of a back problem), full back Jamie Smith (ankle) and Dan Watchurst (broken leg).