THE DRAW has been made for the Ben Francis Cup, which has been re-launched after a three-year absence.

The invite to take part in the tournament was taken up by 27 clubs in the Monmouthshire County RFC area that play in leagues below the Swalec Championship.

The competition, which was first played in 1925, has a new-look format to help clubs fill gaps in their fixture list during international periods.

They have been split into nine groups with the winners progressing in the cup, the runners-up playing in the plate and the bottom clubs going into the bowl.

Group One: Pontypool United, Blaenavon, Tredegar Ironsides

Group Two: Abertillery/Blaenau Gwent, Risca, Hafodyrynys

Group Three: Talywain, Croesyceiliog, Fleur-de-Lys

Group Four: Blackwood Stars, Abergavenny, Nantyglo

Group Five: Trinant, Brynithel, Machen

Group Six: Cwmbran, Ynysddu, Usk

Group Seven: Abercarn, New Tredegar, Brynmawr

Group Eight: Beaufort, Pill Harries, Newport Saracens

Group Nine: Llanhilleth, Blaina, Oakdale

The group matches will be played during the weeks of Wales’ autumn internationals with the teams listed first hosting those listed second on November 8, team three heading to team two on November 15 and team three welcoming team one on November 22.

Round two, featuring three groups of three teams, will be played during the Six Nations with semi-finals and the finals taking place at a neutral venue.