1961-62 saw the arrival of a player who was to prove to be one of the all time greats of Newport, Wales and British rugby. David Watkins a Welsh Youth international arrived from Cwmcelyn Youth and made the outside half position his own. He proved to be the most exciting player in a team, essentially very strong forward-wise under captain Bryn Meredith. Watkins was well supported by scrum half Bob Prosser, a Cardiff College student. Bryn Meredith magnificently led Newport to the Welsh Championship and was selected for his third British Lions tour. Prop Des Greenslade won his first and only Welsh cap while prop Neville Johnson, second row Brian Price and the back row of Brian Cresswell, Glynn Davidge and Alan Thomas played major parts. Cresswell was replaced by converted centre John Anderson who was so impressive in scoring 10 tries in just 16 games that he was selected for a Welsh trial only to tragically break his leg in the trial. Brian Jones was the strong man of the three-quarters and well supported by wings Peter Rees and Dennis Perrott. The fullback position and goal kicking duties were a concern but Norman Morgan decided to make a comeback. Glyn Davidge was outstanding in scoring 13 tries and was Welsh pack leader under captain Bryn Meredith. He was also rewarded by being selected for the British Lions. Alan Thomas did not miss a game in his first season for Newport made 44 appearances and Brian Jones and Ian Ford made 42 which gave Ian an all time record of 379.

The leading points scorer was Brian Jones with 92pts (15 tries) and leading try scorer was Peter Rees with 17tries.