SCRUM-HALF Tavis Knoyle has earned a fresh one-year Dragons contract after fighting back from an injury nightmare to become a Rodney Parade regular, writes Chris Kirwan.

The former Wales international has been rewarded for a strong campaign as back-up to Rhodri Williams, bouncing back from a horror 2017/18 that featured just 13 minutes of action because of wrist and knee injuries.

Knoyle was given a one-year contract extension last summer and has delivered on his pledge to return the favour. He is set for his 19th appearance of the season against the Scarlets at Judgement Day tomorrow.

The 11-times capped international will return next season and be charged with keeping the heat on Williams while also assisting in the development of Wales Under-20s prospects Daf Buckland and Dan Babos.

South Wales Argus:

"I'm delighted to sign and excited about the future at Dragons and the role that I can play," said Knoyle, who has played for all three other regions as well as Gloucester.

"I do consider myself fortunate to be playing at the highest level after a rough couple of years with injury.

"However, over the last season I've played the most I have in six years and that's a huge boost as I look to make a real impact here.

"The conditioning staff and physios, in particular Ben Stirling our head of medical, have had a massive impact on me and I'm indebted to them for their work and support.

"Injuries are a part of sport that you have to deal with, but they also mean that you strive to take every opportunity you are given and appreciate being part of an environment with big ambitions for the future.

"It's all about looking forward and the future for me now. We're all pulling in the same direction here to turn the tide at Dragons and I'm really pleased that I can be a part of that journey."

Caretaker head coach Ceri Jones has hailed the impact made this season by combative Knoyle, who joined the Dragons in 2016.

South Wales Argus:

"It's great to see Tavis back from a frustrating injury period and returning to his high standards. We know that, at his best, he can compete with any nine in Wales," said Jones.

"Tavis is massively passionate about this region and one of our leaders going forward. His enthusiasm for the game and determination to improve is as strong as ever.

"He has relished the competition for the jersey this season and is very good at working with the young scrum halves in our set-up, passing on his knowledge and experience. It's fantastic that he remains with us."

Last week it was confirmed that Dragons scrum-half Rhodri Davies will join Cornish Pirates after just one season at Rodney Parade.