By Andrew Collins
March 23 2006

Dragons coach,Paul Turner, has announced that keeping Hal Luscumbe is crucial if his side are to suceed. The centre and winger has been in regular talks over a new contract, but his availability has alerted the Blues.

Luscumbe, 25, started all 5 of Wales 6 Nations games this year, but failed to make any impact until last week's match against France, in which he put in a excellant, try-scoring performance.

His contract negotions have stalled due to the strong interest from the Blues camp, but Turner admits keeping Hal is a big part in his plans for the Gwent Region.

"We want to keep him, it's our style that if we give players like that quality ball they will damage sides. We've talked to Hal before and after Christmas and hope he has good news."

Hal has 15 Welsh caps to his name, since emergrating to Wales from South Africa during Gramhe Henry's reign. He was contracted by the then Newport club side, and has since captained the Dragons on occasions this season.

But with finances tight for Turner, the Blues may well be able to snuffle the Dragons ans sign him up for next years campaign.

If Hal did join the Blues, he wouldn't nessacerily walk into the side. Dai Young already has electric pairing, Jamie Robinson and Tom Shanklin at his disposal, aswell as Auzzie Marc Strchebina. However, Luscumbe may well see his future at Cardiff on the wing, where next season, the Blues will be down to just Craig Morgan and Chris Czekaj.

Cardiff have failed to secure any new players since Gary Powell in early December, whereas the Dragons, Scarlets and Ospreys have all reported recent signings.

If the Blues are serious about improving, Hal is a major potential signing, quick, exciting and Welsh, Luscumbe offers a pretty good deal, but whether Peter Thomas is as keen as Paul Turner, we've yet to see.