DRAGONS boss Bernard Jackman has hailed ‘unflappable’ lock Cory Hill after reappointing the Wales forward as captain.

The 26-year-old from Pontypridd will lead the Rodney Parade region for the second season on the bounce after being given the honour last summer.

It proved to be a challenging campaign for the Dragons, who managed just two wins in the Guinness PRO14, but it was a memorable one for Hill.

The second row featured in all 12 Tests for Wales – the only player to do so – and led his country to series victory in Argentina.

Hill is poised for his first action of the summer against Gloucester on Thursday night and Jackman believes the lock has proved himself as the perfect man to lead from the front.

“Cory was incredibly impressive as a leader last season in difficult circumstances. We had so many injuries but he pulled together a young team and was a real role model,” said the former Ireland hooker.

“His development has been recognised by the Welsh management and the decision to make him co-captain for the Welsh summer tour was a huge honour for both Cory and the Dragons. His reappointment was an easy decision as he is the outstanding candidate.

“Cory has become more self-assured and is very calm under pressure and in difficult situations. He reminds me of my former captain [Leinster and Ireland lock] Leo Cullen in that he very rarely gets flustered, makes the right decisions and will bring a young group of players together.”

The Dragons name their squad for Gloucester tomorrow with Hill and fellow Wales internationals Elliot Dee, Leon Brown and Gavin Henson expected to feature after missing last week's loss to Northampton in Newport.