Former Wales scrumhalf Knoyle leaves Dragons with 'immediate effect'

Former Wales scrumhalf Tavis Knoyle departs the Dragons with 'immediate effect' - the region have confirmed.

A reason for the departure of Knoyle was not given. Known for his confrontational approach to the game, he made his Dragons debut in Krasnador in the European Challenge Cup match versus Enisei-STM in October 2016.

He previously played for Gloucester as well as Ospreys, Scarlets and Cardiff Blues – becoming only the third player to play for all four professional Welsh regions when he joined the Men of Gwent.

A statement from the Dragons reads: "The 31-year-old moved to Rodney Parade in 2016 and has made a total of 61 appearances for the Men of Gwent over five and a half seasons.

"Dragons would like to place on record our thanks Tavis for his efforts during this time at the region and wish him and his family all the best for the future.

"Meanwhile, Dragons can confirm scrum half Lewis Jones will remain with the region until at least the end of the current season."

Glynneath product Knoyle was part of the Wales squad to tour New Zealand in 2010, making his debut against New Zealand in Dunedin as a second-half replacement.

He was named in the Six Nations squad in 2011, winning his second cap in the clash with Scotland, and later appeared in the 2011 Rugby World Cup. He has made a total of 11 appearances for Wales.