KINGSLEY Jones hopes Newport Gwent Dragons can get their kicks out of scrum-half Tavis Knoyle at the Ospreys on Saturday, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 11-times capped Wales international looks set to make his first start for the men from Rodney Parade when they head to the Liberty Stadium in the Guinness Pro12 (kick-off 3pm).

Knoyle has signed for the Dragons until 2018 after falling down the pecking order at Cardiff Blues and made his debut off the bench in last week's shock European Rugby Challenge Cup loss to Enisei in Russia.

With Charlie Davies out with a hamstring injury and Sarel Pretorius unable to play a full part in training because of a minor back issue, the 26-year-old new boy is likely to be thrown the 9 jersey.

The Dragons have played some enterprising rugby this season and earlier this month left Parc y Scarlets with a pair of bonus points after scoring four tries in a 31-27 defeat.

Head coach Jones hopes that Knoyle, who would partner experienced fly-half Nick Macleod if he gets the nod in Swansea, can help them play in the right place at the right time.

"I thought that Tavis was excellent at Enisei," said head coach Jones. "It was a very big challenge for him to know all the moves and calls but he is a very good player, a good character and is experienced.

"It might be a case this weekend of using Sarel tactically off the bench and we have no fears about Tavis having the start.

"I have been a fan of Tavis' for a while. He has a very good kicking game and I have been on about that for some time, because it's not been at the level we require.

"We have got excellent players and for the blend and mix of the team, Tavis brings a kicking game that will suit us in certain games."

The Dragons and Ospreys name their teams at midday tomorrow and Jones' side will make their final preparations at an open training session in Ystrad Mynach.

No tickets are required and supporters are welcome at their training base from 10.15am with the team run taking place from 10.30am to 11.30am. Players will be available for autographs and photos afterwards.