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Youngster looking to take his opportunity

Dragons head coach Bernard Jackman has taken a chance on 18-year-old Taine Basham, as he has selected the youngster to make his debut tomorrow evening against Guinness PRO14 champions Scarlets.

Katie Vizard | 04/01/2018

The Talywain born 18-year-old will run out at Parc-Y-Scarlets on Friday night seeing him become the 8th youngster to make his senior Dragons debut this season.

Commenting on his selection, Basham explains that he wasn’t expecting to be involved in the preparations with the senior squad this week and be involved in Wales' Under 20s training camp instead. "I came in for the first day back and Bernard came up and said that I am starting.

"This week I was hoping to be in the Under20s training camp, that was my plan, and then Bernard said I was starting against the Scarlets. It was a lot to take in but you've got to stay cool!

"Other boys like Dan Babos, Josh Reynolds and Lennon Greggains have had their opportunities and mine has come now, hopefully I'll be able to take it and have a good game. I'm excited and nervous.

"I could be going up against James Davies, he is one of the best out there, so it's a great opportunity. There's no pressure, just go out there and play - do what I do."

The youngster has made appearances for Premiership sides Bedwas and Cross Keys whilst also playing in the British and Irish Cup for the Dragons Premiership select side, and appreciates the time that the senior players have spent with him offering tips.

"James Benjamin has helped me with tactics, because he can play 6, 7 and 8, and I watch my games back with Nic Cudd.

"He helps a lot and in terms of turnovers he is right up there, so it's great to have someone like that telling me how to do it.”

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