David Richards, also known as Dai, came through the Academy system at Dragons with his talent quickly identified at Monmouth School and at age grade level. He joined Newport RFC, whilst a part of the Dragons Academy, in the 2018/2019 season and quickly established himself as a regular in the Welsh Premiership for the black and Ambers. Across his four seasons playing for Newport, Richards amassed 44 appearances, scoring 10 tries and was named Player of the Match in their 2022 Indigo Welsh Cup final victory over Aberavon at the Principality Stadium.

An elusive and versatile back three talent, Richards made his Dragons debut in April 2022 off the bench against Gloucester Rugby in the European Challenge Cup during the 2021/2022 season and made his second appearance a week later, impressing during the Men of Gwent's away victory over the Scarlets at Parc y Scarlets.

Richards made his first start for the club against Zebre Parma in round seven of the 2022/2023 URC campaign starring with two tries and the Player of the Match award in a 47-7 victory at Rodney Parade. Following the international break Richards kept his place in the starting xv as the Dragons took on Emirates Lions in Johannesburg, but unfortunately suffered a season ending injury at Emirates Airline Park. The young flyer signed a new deal with the Men of Gwent ahead of the 2023/2024 season, committing his future to the club.,