Former Dragons centre Sage signs for Turner's Ampthill

The 24-year-old South African has signed along with lock Henri Williams, who came through the ranks at the Dragons and played 12 times for the Bedfordshire club last season.

Sage, who is Welsh-qualified through his father from Newbridge, was signed from the Southern Kings in November, 2017.

The strong-running centre made a strong start to last season and featured 17 times, taking his total tally to 23, but was released this summer with the region signing Saracens’ Tom Griffiths to battle with Jack Dixon, Adam Warren, Tyler Morgan, Connor Edwards and Tiaan Loots for midfield spots.

But Sage has decided to stay in the UK and will now feature for Ampthill, who have enjoyed three promotions in the seven seasons since Turner joined.

Sage said: “The chance to work with Paul Turner was a major incentive and I am keen to contribute Ampthill’s remarkable success story.”

Turner, who has been involved in the Welsh Rugby Union’s exiles programme, is pleased to have Sage in the Ampthill squad.

He said: “I have been tracking Jarryd’s progress since he joined the Dragons. He is a very explosive and ball playing centre who is comfortable at both 12 and 13.

"We are delighted that Jarryd has chosen to join us at Ampthill and I know he will enjoy his time here.”

READ MORE: Turner signs new Ampthill deal

Williams helped the club to the National One title last season and will return for the coming campaign, which will pit the minnows against the likes of Newcastle, Bedford Blues, Ealing, Cornish Pirates and Nottingham.

“I’m really proud to have contributed to the promotion campaign and wanted to be a part of the next chapter,” said the lock, who made a pair of Anglo-Welsh Cup appearances for the Dragons in 2018.