NEWPORT Gwent Dragons have appointed hooker Rhys Thomas as their captain for the coming season.

The 32-year-old former Wales international takes over permanently from Lee Byrne, who missed most of last season with a shoulder injury that forced his early retirement.

Byrne’s absence led to Thomas sharing the duty as deputy with South African lock Rynard Landman and it is the hooker who has got the nod for 2015/16.

“I am truly honoured to have been selected as captain for the coming season,” said the 27-times capped forward.

“I thoroughly enjoyed leading the team last year with the challenge being to guide young Gwent talent to the next level.

“There has been a massive change in the squad attitude and the standard at the Dragons since I arrived in 2013 and I am excited about our prospects for next season.”

If Thomas is to lead out his side then he will have to win his fierce battle for the number 2 jersey with 21-year-old Elliot Dee, whose form caught the eye of the international management team before a January shoulder injury.

But director of rugby Lyn Jones believes the way that Thomas has helped in the development of his young protégé shows that he is prime captaincy material.

“Rhys has made a real impression with everybody here at the Dragons,” said Jones. “Being a tough, mature and consistent performer has made him an excellent choice as a role model and as our skipper.”