Dragons Prepare for Zebre Match Without Key Players

The Dragons are set to face Zebre in the United Rugby Championship at Rodney Parade, hoping to showcase their squad depth despite a significant injury list and the absence of several players called up for Wales' Nations Championship squad.

Filo Tiatia's team will be without five players from the Wales squad, including centre Aneurin Owen and scrum-half Che Hope. Wing Rio Dyer, who was initially called up, has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury. The Dragons are currently assessing Dyer's condition while also managing the absence of tight-head prop Robert Hunt, who is recovering from elbow surgery.

Co-captain Angus O'Brien expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform, noting the competition within the squad. The Dragons have had a mixed start to the season, with a draw against Benetton and victories over Scarlets and Perpignan, but they need a strong response after a recent loss to Ospreys. The match against Zebre is crucial for determining the success of their season's first block.