NEWPORT RFC head coach Craig Warlow has backed Rhys Jenkins to lead through his no-nonsense actions after naming the tenacious flanker as captain for the coming campaign.

The 27-year-old has made 104 appearances for the Black and Ambers since his 2010 debut and was named as player of the season for 2016/17 by both the supporters and the coaching team after being a leading figure in winning Tier Two of the Principality Premiership.

Jenkins, who made a solitary appearance for the Dragons after coming through the academy, was the natural choice to replace lock Adam Brown, who has left the club because of his commitments as physio for Newport County AFC.

Jenkins said: "Being a Newport boy brought up in Caerleon, it is a massive honour to be asked to captain my local club and a club that has such a great history.

"Newport is a club with passionate supporters and I'm hoping to be able to lead the team to produce success on the pitch for the faithful fans.

"It's a new era for the club but an exciting time and I can't wait to get stuck into the new season. The whole squad is working hard with the coaches and I'm looking forward to the first game.

"Rodney Parade is being redeveloped and we are hopeful that the new surface will allow us to play the kind of high tempo style that suits us."

Jenkins was hindered by injury in his youth but has fought back to hit the 20-game mark in the last three seasons.

Head coach Craig Warlow believes the back row forward will lead by example in the coming campaign.

"When you consider the history and responsibility that comes with playing for and leading a club like Newport it is important that you get the right man for the job," said the former fly-half.

"Rhys is a Newport man that epitomises everything you want in a player and a captain. He has a pedigree in international age-grade rugby and with his recent run of luck avoiding injuries, we are seeing his talent being shown consistently on the field over a sustained period.

"Rhys is a doer. He looks after himself very well and sets an example to others in the squad. When he speaks people listen because they know that he will lead with his actions.

"His calm head and great work ethic will no doubt help all others on and off the pitch. I know Rhys is as excited about the new season as we as coaches are."