CENTRE Jarryd Sage is hoping to force his way into the Dragons fold for the festive derbies when he makes his first outing since arriving from South Africa in Ystrad Mynach on Saturday, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 22-year-old arrived in Wales last week after signing from Guinness PRO14 rivals the Southern Kings.

Sage, whose father moved to South Africa from Newbridge in his teens, has been training with the first team but is set for a first taste of action for the Dragons Premiership Select against Yorkshire Carnegie in the British and Irish Cup (kick-off 2.30pm).

The centre was greeted by a cold snap and a first sight of snow but the weather hasn’t dampened his enthusiasm for a new adventure.

He is not yet registered for the European Challenge Cup, so was never an option for Newcastle, but a strong showing against Carnegie would give head coach Bernard Jackman something to mull over.

With Rodney Parade clashes with Cardiff Blues on Boxing Day and the Ospreys on New Year’s Eve, the new boy is dreaming of a swift call-up for the biggest games of the season.

“I want to play as soon as I can and any opportunity I can get I will try to grab with both hands,” said Sage, who made one Kings outing against Ulster.

“It would be really nice to get a chance to play in the derbies. This weekend, with everything that has been going on, was a bit of a rush but if I can get a game it would be really good to play in the derbies.

“Tomorrow is an opportunity for me and I am playing rugby, which is the best thing and why I am here.”

Sage played for Western Province and the Golden Lions before his chance at the Kings but has long been on the radar of the WRU because of his Welsh heritage.

“I’ve always been in talks with the Welsh Rugby Union and some of their guys got hold of me in school, but I was kind of delaying it and delaying it,” he said.

“But when the Dragons offered me a deal I thought it was fitting to come back to the roots of the family in Newbridge and Blackwood.

“I played with the Kings for five months and the plan was always to come over after this PRO14 season but the offer came through from the Dragons a bit early and I couldn’t say no to it.

“It’s a bit hectic learning the plays and getting to know the players but I am starting to get into the groove now.”

And Sage will provide another welcome midfield option in the absence of injured centres Tyler Morgan and Sam Beard, aiming to add some trademark South African oomph.

“I’m a 12 or 13 and just enjoy playing the game, grabbing opportunities to have a good time and play with a smile on the field… but with ball carries and big tackles as well!”

The Dragons name their team tomorrow afternoon for the Carnegie clash as they attempt to avenge last week’s 43-22 loss in Yorkshire.

James Chapron's side currently prop up the pool after also losing to Jersey and London Scottish.