Ospreys retain services of experienced Wales international

CONTRACT EXTENSION: The Ospreys announced that centre, Owen Watkin, has signed a new deal to remain with the side.

The news follows on from the club’s recent announcements of fellow internationals – Jac Morgan, Dewi Lake and Gareth Thomas, all opting to remain with the West Wales-based side.

Watkin, 28, has been a defensive leader for the club and at international level for Wales, while also becoming equally as threatening on the ball in recent years.

A product of the Ospreys pathway and Bryncethin RFC, Watkin has featured in 121 games for the Ospreys, while also featuring for Wales on the international stage on 43 occasions.

He was also part of the 2019 Wales Grand Slam-winning side, featuring in all five of their Six Nations wins.

Reflecting on his new deal, Watkin said: “I’m delighted to be extending my time with the Ospreys.

“This is an ambitious club, full of ambitious players, all trying to push each other to be the best version of themselves.

“I’ve spent my whole career at this club, and what has always been a key determiner for me in that is the atmosphere.

“Coming to work every day here, with the boys we have, is a privilege.

“I was gutted to have picked up an injury on Wales duty, but I’m already looking forward to returning and pulling on the black jersey with some of my best mates.

Head Coach, Mark Jones, said: “Owen is another excellent example of our successful pathway programme, not just from a playing viewpoint, but from a character perspective also.

“Having a centre that’s as influential on both sides of the ball as he is, is crucial in modern rugby, and we’re really happy that he sees his future at our club.

“We see Owen as an important piece of our puzzle going forward, especially from a leadership perspective, so it’s great for us to have secured his signature.”