Dragons v Benetton team news as Ross Moriarty aims to prove Six Nations fitness ahead of Ireland clash

Ross Moriarty will look to prove his fitness for the Six Nations as he returns to action for the Dragons on Friday night after a three-month lay-off.

The 27-year-old has been sidelined since damaging his shoulder in Wales’ autumn opener against New Zealand, an injury which required surgery.

But he is back and captaining the Men of Gwent from No. 8 in their United Rugby Championship clash against Benetton at Rodney Parade (7.35pm kick-off).

Even though Moriarty hasn’t played any rugby since October 30, Wales coach Wayne Pivac decided to select him in his 36-man Championship squad.

That shows how much he values Moriarty's physicality and abrasive edge, as well as his experience, especially with the likes of Josh Navidi, Taulupe Faletau, Justin Tipuric and Dan Lydiate missing from the back row contingent due to injury.

Along with a group of other players, Moriarty has been released from the Wales squad to get some game time this weekend.

If he comes through his return unscathed, he could well be in the equation for the Six Nations opener against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday week.

Pivac views Moriarty primarily as a No. 6 option and he would be vying for that role with the versatile Ellis Jenkins, who occupied the position during the last three autumn Tests.

If Moriarty does take the field against Ireland, he will win his 50th Welsh cap.

Meanwhile, fly-half Sam Davies hits a double milestone against Benetton as he makes his 50th Dragons appearance and has his 150th league outing.

Boss Dean Ryan makes nine changes from the last game, which was against the same opponents, the Challenge Cup loss out in Treviso.

Welsh international hooker Elliot Dee returns from injury on the bench, along with scrum-half Rhodri Williams.

Josh