Ospreys prepare for All-wales clash

Jones is keeping his final selection close to his chest, and will finalise his team just before kick-off at the Liberty Stadium as he waits on fitness tests on a number of players.

And has Jones revealed how last year’s double defeats against the Blues, as well as Friday’s ‘thunderbolt’ at Connacht were still playing on his mind.

He said: “Cardiff Blues look like formidable opposition. We still have memories from last season when they outplayed us on two occasions.

“Connacht has been a thunderbolt for us to manage, but it is now behind us, and what is important is how we react to the next fixture.”

However, Jones stressed that despite these losses, the Ospreys were ready to bounce back against their regional rivals.

“The challenge is now set before the players to make up for the disappointment of last Friday and to play to our potential,” he said.

“I am anticipating a much improved performance and I am sure the players will restore pride to the Ospreys jersey.”

Ospreys squad

Backs: Gavin Henson, Lee Byrne, Nikki Walker, Sonny Parker, Andrew Bishop, Tal Selley Stefan Terblanche, Shane Williams, James Hook, Justin Marshall, Martin Roberts

Forwards: Ryan Jones, Richard Pugh, Jonathan Thomas, Filo Tiatia, Andrew Lloyd, Alun Wyn Jones, Brent Cockbain, Ian Evans, Lyndon Bateman, Richard Hibbard, Duncan Jones (Capt), Adam Jones, Huw Bennett, Paul James