PONTYPOOL have been given a helping hand in preparations for the coming Swalec Championship season by former Wales internationals Phil Davies and Ceri Jones.

Director of rugby Alun Carter brought his former Worcester colleagues in for a pre-season tune-up.

Former flanker Davies, who resigned as Cardiff Blues boss last season, helped the squad ahead of their 41-22 friendly win against Rhiwbina.

And ex Newport prop Jones, who is the Warriors’ scrum coach, covered for Leighton Jones while the forwards chief was on holiday.

“Phil was a passionate player and has not changed as a coach,” said Carter. “The players enjoyed his session and the enthusiasm he brought together with stories of visits to Pontypool Park when he was a young player at Llanelli.”

“Ceri has a huge amount of experience as a professional player, particularly through his time with Harlequins over an eight-year period,” he continued Carter.

“To have another local lad involved in our pre season preparations was very refreshing and the players and coaches alike have most certainly benefited from Ceri’s knowledge base and what he offered during his two weeks with us.”