The home side, who have enjoyed a superb start to the season, sit in second place going into the game, three points behind leaders Llandovery albeit having played a game more.
Saturday’s clash takes on extra meaning as Blue and Blacks head coach Martyn Fowler returns to the side where he was forwards coach last year. He is joined by new backs coach Mark Ring who joined the club from Cross Keys this week.
Fowler, whose son Aaron also moved from Bedwas to Cardiff at the end of last season, is looking forward to returning to a club he holds in high regard.
“Bedwas gave me my opportunity to coach in the Premiership and I’ve got a great deal of respect for everyone at the club,” said the Cardiff head coach.
“What they have done there, working on a tight budget is exemplary.
“We’re looking for the victory on Saturday but Bedwas are flying in second place at the moment and it’s very much a fortress at Bridge Field.
“We’re hopeful for a dry day and a firm paddock so we can play the type of game we like to play.”
Ring has had limited involvement with the Cardiff squad, Tuesday being his first session with the club. But Fowler is looking forward to the impact the former Wales fly-half.
“Mark’s been looking and observing how we do things at the club,” added Fowler.
“He’s got lots of new ideas, 101 ideas if I’m honest but preparations for Bedwas were already in place before his appointment.
“Bringing a coach in on a Monday and changing things for a Saturday game would only be detrimental to the team.
“Mark had lots to say and lots of ideas and he will be a vital part of our coaching cog that we think is working quite well at the moment.”
Ahead of Saturday’s clash, both sides have had players called up to their regions for LV = Cup action.
Cardiff captain Shaun Powell moves from the wing into the centre to cover for the club’s midfield injury problems. Joe Griffin starts at full back while there are starts in the pack for Nathan Trevett at prop and Reuben Tucker and Ellis Jenkins in the back row.
Following the break for last weekend’s international fixture, Bedwas head coach Steve Law has selected a starting 15 showing just two changes from the one which drew with Llandovery two weeks ago.
Kristian Gay starts at tight head prop and Tom Rowlands at scrum half with Matthew Pettit and Josh Davies on the bench.
“There’s an extra bit of spice with Martyn returning,” said Law who is firm friends with Fowler.
“Martyn was forwards coach here for two years so we’re looking forward to it. We’re expecting a nothing but a fully committed, very tough game.
“In the Premiership if you don’t play to your potential any team can beat anyone on their day.”
Law is especially pleased with his side’s start to the season and hopes to continue the momentum.
“We’re second in the league at the moment, playing to our potential week in week out and staying consistent which is pleasing,” he added.
“Saturday is a huge game, it always is against Cardiff.”
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