DAN Babos hopes that a spell under the microscope in "totally constant" New Zealand club rugby can help him kick on with the Dragons next season, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 19-year-old scrum-half from Cwmbran is enjoying a two-month spell in Te Awamutu Sports in Waikato along with academy full-back Carwyn Penny.

Babos burst onto the scene in 2017/18 when he became the first player born this millennium to start a PRO14 game but he did not feature last season, instead playing in the Premiership with Cross Keys.

He is relishing the chance to spend the next few weeks working hard on his game in the Kiwi intensity rather than having his feet up ahead of the return for pre-season training.

"Rugby over here is totally constant," said Babos, who has 11 Dragons appearances to his name and scored at Hamilton last weekend.

"If you're not playing or training you'll be watching highlights throughout the week and rugby union or rugby league games on the weekend.

"It's all the time, everywhere you turn. I've really enjoyed my stay here so far with the new team and teammates.

"The club have helped us settle in and arranged various activities for us to do, like sightseeing around the area, so we can get used to the new surroundings."

South Wales Argus:

The scrum-half hopes that his spell in New Zealand can help him put the pressure on rivals Rhodri Williams, Tavis Knoyle and fellow prospect Dafydd Buckland, who was picked ahead of him by Wales for the World Rugby U20 Championship.

"The one major difference I have found here is the speed of ball and offload out of tackles," he said.

"There are many more line breaks and more chances to score more tries.

"It's really good to experience something new and to try bring some elements back to the Dragons so I can really kick on next season."