NEWPORT Gwent Dragons flanker Lewis Evans is looking forward to the benefits of a pre-season hit out against Cardiff Blues, both on and off the field.

Preparations for the Guinness Pro12 opener against Ulster go up a notch or two when the Dragons, who play RGC 1404 in a conditioning match in Colwyn Bay next week, welcome their fiercest rivals to Rodney Parade on Friday, August 12 (kick-off 7.30pm).

The fixture will be invaluable for Kingsley Jones' squad as they blow away cobwebs ahead of other friendly dates with Ealing Trailfinders (Ystrad Mynach, Saturday, August 20 at 3pm) and Exeter Chiefs (Rodney Parade, Friday, August 26 at 7.30pm).

But it will also be a game to remember for Evans and his fellow Dragons stalwart Ashley Smith, who retired in May, 2015 because of concussion, as they celebrate their beneficiary year.

The Blues encounter will raise money for the popular pair's chosen charities St David's Hospice Care and Stay Strong for Ows.

"When we knew that we were going to be granted a game the first thought that sprang to mind was to try and get Cardiff Blues, our biggest rivals and a game that attracts fans from both teams," said 29-year-old Evans.

"It's going to be a big game for us in terms of preparing for the start of the season but it should also be a good occasion for supporters.

"We didn't want it to be a corporate event, we wanted it to be for the fans and it should be with a pre-match hog roast and some legends from both teams telling a few classic stories."

While Smith can take in the festivities, Evans will be concentrating on making sure he is in the XV for the Pro12 opener at Ravenhill on Friday, September 2.

"Everyone is looking forward to seeing the back of the conditioning block of pre-season," said the back row forward, who should overtake Steve 'Jabba' Jones to top spot in the region's list of appearances in the first month of the season.

"It can be the toughest time of the season in some ways mentally and physically so it's good to start playing rugby again. This is the bit the players love.

"It may be pre-season but it is always competitive against Welsh rivals and all the boys will be trying to stake a claim for a starting jersey.

"Both sides will be looking to impress and after working so hard over the summer you want to see the fruits of your efforts building into that first weekend of the season."

Tickets for the Cardiff Blues game cost £10 for adults and £5 for season ticket holders, general members, concessions and under-16s.

The pre-match hog roast takes place in the marquee from 5:30pm. Entry includes a match ticket, food, a player Q&A and live music, costing £30 for standard entry or £25 for Dragons members and concessions.

For ticketing enquiries call 01633 674990 or email ticketing@rodneyparadeltd.com.

The Ealing and Exeter games are included in season tickets.