Harry Keady: The Dragons forward is ready to get a chance with Wales

Ten years ago KD’s exploits for the Wales Under-20 Six Nations Grand Slam winning team earned him an invitation to help the seniors prepare for their autumn series.

Then 20, he joined Dragons tight-head prop Leon Brown, Ospreys wing Keelan Giles and Cardiff full-back Rune Williams to help Rob Hawley’s squad prepare for matches against Australia, Argentina, Japan and South Africa.

Almost a decade after getting a taste of international standards with Sam Warburton, Dan Lydiate and Justin Tipuric, KD returns as a full member of the squad.

Like Ollie Cracknell, who made his Wales debut in the autumn aged 31, it’s a triumph for resilience.

“I guess I’ve probably put the mindset of focusing on the performance for the Dragons and not worrying about the past,” said Keady, who can play in the back row.

“I just wanted to see where it would take me in the end and I feel incredibly privileged to have been deemed good enough to be called.

“I’m looking forward to testing myself to see how well I can do and what I can learn.”