Domestic Preview Week 22

Stephen Jones and Gareth Thomas are likely to endure a rough ride back in France, with both being allowed to return to their clubs. Clermont-Auvergne will continue trying to escape the relegation mire of the Top 16, with Jones on board at home to Perpignan.

Whilst Thomas is also back for Toulouse, when they host lowly Montpellier. Both matches are on Saturday afternoon. Mefin Davies is expected to be involved in the West Country derby, as Gloucester host Bath.

At home Luke Charteris makes a rare start at Rodney Parade for Newport Gwent, against a full strength Ulster side on Friday night. Third choice Wales’s hooker Steve Jones also makes the line up.

The Dragons’ are said to be unhappy that more of their Welsh contingent have not been released this week. Chris Anderson had hoped that Ian Gough and Kevin Morgan would be available.

One player who has however been released, Mike Phillips is drafted in by the Scarlets’ to avert a scrum half crisis for the region, when they travel to Athlone to face Connacht.

Wales coach Mike Ruddock will have an eye on how Duncan Jones fairs following his return from a broken thumb against Borders, for the Ospreys on Saturday evening.

Sonny Parker and Ryan Jones could also feature, as they look to re-gain match fitness, however both are unlikely to be in Wales contention for next Saturday. Cardiff Blues have a bye this week.