NEWPORT Gwent Dragons have been handed a major boost by influential back row pair Lewis Evans and Nic Cudd agreeing new contracts.

The duo, whose deals ran out this summer, have been major figures for the Rodney Parade region in recent years.

Evans is a one-club man and has represented his home region 160 times since coming through the academy and making his debut in 2006. That tally that puts him third on the Dragons list of record appearance holders and his new deal should ensure he overtakes Adam Black and Steve Jones.

The 27-year-old, who is out for the rest of the season because of a wrist injury, is comfortable across the back row and has grown into being one of the Dragons' leaders. He captained the side in 2012/13 and was voted by Argus readers as their player of the 2013/14 campaign.

Cudd has had a firm grip on the Dragons' number 7 jersey since heading east from Llanelli RFC in 2012 to solve a back row injury crisis.

The 26-year-old has made 61 appearances in three seasons and established himself as one of the finest breakdown operators in the Guinness Pro12.

"I have no doubt that this news will give everyone involved with the Dragons a huge boost," said director of rugby Lyn Jones. "Both Lewis and Nic are quality players.

"Lewis has characteristics that make him a really good leader. He's very much a role model for any young players in the region.

"At 27 he is still a young man but has already achieved a lot in his career to date. I do believe that his best days are still ahead of him and its fantastic news that we will benefit from having him here for another two years.

"Nic has continued to impress me since my arrival and I am simply delighted to be offering him an extension to stay at the Dragons.

"It's a significant statement of intent from our business. Newport Gwent Dragons have a bright future and we are creating an environment that players want to be part of.

"We have put in hard work, both on and off the field over the last few years means that the business is in as best a possible position to gain respect and a higher league placing."

Evans said: “I am just incredibly happy to have sorted this out so that I can focus solely on my rugby. I’m a local boy who enjoys playing for my home region and now I can do that for another two years.

“We are working hard here to build something long term; we have a lot of talented youngsters coming through and you get the feeling that something special is coming, so I am pleased that I can continue playing my part here.”

Cudd said: “I feel that my game has really advanced in the last two years and I look forward to continuing to push myself to be the best.

“We all feel that there is something special around the corner for us and I am proud to be a part of it.”