Howard signs for Newport Gwent Dragons

Pat Howard has put pen to paper for the Newport Gwent Dragons which will see the powerful back join up with the squad next season.

The wing began his rugby career at Western Province during the 2011 season when he became a key member of the Western Province U19s side that reached the semi-finals of the 2011 Under-19 Provincial Championship.

In 2012 he was named in the South Africa Under 20s side that went on to win the IRB Junior World Championship.

After signing his contract, Howard commented: “I am really looking forward to returning to play in the PRO12 and am delighted that I have put pen to paper with the Dragons.

“I made my first appearance for Munster at Rodney Parade against the Dragons, and I am excited to be returning there and playing in front of a great crowd.”

Dragons Head Coach, Kingsley Jones added: “We are delighted to bring Pat on board, he is a player that we have been monitoring for over 18 months.

“He is a dangerous attacking player with both strength and pace, and his physical nature of playing will add to our youthful backline."

Howard joins the Welsh Region from English Premiership team Northampton Saints.