GERAINT Rhys Jones knows that Newport Gwent Dragons must cope with being the team to beat when they start the defence of their Singha Premiership 7s title, writes Chris Kirwan.

The Dragons lifted the trophy at the Twickenham Stoop last summer thanks to a last-gasp victory against a star-studded Wasps side featuring full England internationals Christian Wade, Elliot Daly and Joe Simpson.

If the men from Rodney Parade are to repeat that feat then they must make it through the Welsh leg against the regional rivals on Friday, July 22 (7pm start) to qualify for the finals day at Wasps’ Ricoh Arena.

The Dragons have made it through in the capital on both previous occasions but former sevens international Jones knows they are now the team to beat.

"It's a great tournament and we're really looking forward to it again this year – we also know now that our fellow Welsh clubs will be targeting us,” said the 28-year-old, a full-back in the 15-man game.

“It will be tough for us to get out of the group stage in Wales, so we have to focus on performing at the BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park. It's going to be a great night.

"I really enjoy 7s, it's a brilliant opportunity to go out and play with a bit more space and show your individual flair and particularly for some of our younger players to show what they can do in space.

"We've seen the growth of players like Harri Keddie who was excellent for us last year and did a great job with winning tries in both the semi-final and final and he's gone on to really progress well with Wales Under-20s.

"There are a couple more coming through including the likes of (wing) Lloyd Lewis who has made his Wales 7s debut and looks like an exciting player.

"All four of the Welsh teams will want to qualify to have a crack at the English clubs. They are high quality sides and it's very exciting for our developing players to come up against these star players and show what they can do."

The Dragon play the Ospreys (7.25pm), Cardiff Blues (8.20pm) and Scarlets (8.50pm) with the aim of making finals day at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena on Sunday, August 7.