STALWART Brok Harris is relishing another scrap for the Dragons' number 1 jersey after his uncertainty over a new contract was ended.

The South African has signed a fresh deal, initially short-term, to play a sixth season at Rodney Parade.

The 34-year-old arrived from the Stormers and Western Province in November 2014 and has been a mainstay of the front row, racking up 108 appearances after initially being primarily a tighthead and then switching to loosehead.

Harris

agreed terms before the end of last season

but his re-signing was delayed by red tape and the Welsh-qualified prop needed to wait for a visa.

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"It's been a long process but we got there eventually, my family are settled and I am very happy to stay at the Dragons," he said.

"It was just a relief to get it through, there was a bit of hassle but it's good to get it out of the way and I am looking forward to cracking on and focusing on the rugby.

"You sometimes think of 'what if…' but it was out of my control and everything has worked out perfectly, I am so happy to still be here."

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Harris was signed by Lyn Jones and has since had Kingsley Jones, Bernard Jackman, caretaker boss Ceri Jones and now Dean Ryan calling the shots at Rodney Parade.

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"There have been some changes, but it's for the good and we are looking forward," said the prop, who has played in two European Challenge Cup semi-finals.

"In the last five years the Dragons have been used to change but hopefully everyone will go in the same direction and be better for it. We can learn from the past and move forward with what Dean wants."

And Harris will be fulfilling the dual role of pushing Ryan Bevington for the starting spot and assisting in the development of younger looseheads Jack Cosgrove and Josh Reynolds.

"When I first got here I saw all the talent and the potential. That's still here and I want to be part of something big, to turn this ship around and get towards winning ways," said Harris.

"I have been around the block, so my role will be to get the youngsters through, the likes of Josh and Jack.

"It's a good combination between young and old, but I want to play and it's good to have competition.

"You can't go into the PRO14 with one or two, you need three or four per position and it's hard to play week in, week out. It's good to have depth."

Jones, back in his role as forwards coach after holding the reins after the dismissal of Jackman, is thrilled to still have the veteran as an option.

He said: "Brok has been a fantastic servant for Dragons over the last five seasons and become a vital component in our pack.

"He continues to perform at the very highest level and have a huge impact, both on and off the field, with his leadership and vast experience.

"It is a real boost that has signed new terms and we look forward to seeing him in action again next season."