FORMER Ospreys forward and Wales international Dan Baker has committed his future to the Dragons with a new contract.

The powerful number eight Dan Baker, who hails from Ystradgynlais, joined in February on a deal to the end of the campaign.

The explosive ball carrier made his debut for Dragons against Leinster at Rodney Parade, and has made seven appearances to date.

"I’ve really enjoyed my time at the region and getting to work closely with Dean (Ryan) and the rest of the coaching team,” said the 28-year-old.

“There is fierce competition for places in the back row here and it’s been really good for me to be really challenged and pushed in a fresh environment.

“Dragons have big ambitions for the future and it’s exciting to know I will now be a part of that.”

Director of Dragons Rugby, Dean Ryan, said he was really pleased with the impression he has made at the club.

“He brings a different dimension to our back row resources and offers us a different style to our game," said Ryan.

“Dan has been a really good acquisition, and we look forward to him continuing to make his mark with us.”

The Neath-born back rower joined the Dragons after recent spell at Stade Montois in France.

He had previously made 94 appearances for Ospreys, and won three caps for Wales.

Baker was once seen as a rival to Taulupe Faletau in the Wales back row - before a knee injury cost him almost two years on the sidelines.

He came through the regional development pathway with Ystradgynlais, his home club, from where he entered the Ospreys age-grade system, going on to play almost 50 times for Swansea.

A Wales age-grade cap, he featured in the 9-6 win over New Zealand U20 in the 2012 Junior World Championships as the Welsh youngsters progressed to the semi-final stage.

Hr was first selected for the Wales senior squad in May 2013 and the summer tour to Japan, making his international debut against the Cherry Blossoms in June of that year.

A knee injury had cost him close on two years of his time at the Ospreys, and there was a further lay-off due to shoulder trouble – but he is still thought highly of at the Liberty.