Players from all four regions will also have the added incentive of performing well in front of the international selectors as it will be a last chance to impress before Kris de Scossa confirms his Six Nations squad.
Blues fly half Elinor Snowsill, who is pushing hard for a starting place in the Welsh team but finds stiff competition in the shape of experienced Scarlets stand off Awen Thomas, is putting her team’s ambitions ahead of her own personal aims, as the Blues chase glory.
“If you think too much about your own personal performance that could be detrimental to the team’s objectives. We’re really enjoying playing these regional games and I’ve enjoyed playing alongside Pross (scrum half Laura Prosser),” she said.
The Blues halfback combination of Prosser and Snowsill has been a major strength of the side this season and if the Dragons are to cause an upset, coach Liz Burgess is fully aware of the threat they pose.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge on Sunday,” she said. “The Blues have played really well this season and have a number of Welsh internationals in crucial positions who have stood up to the mark this season.”
In the other game, also being played at Cardiff Quins on Sunday, defending champions Scarlets take on the Ospreys.
Scarlets Team Manager Sara Davies has named a side with several changes. There is a new halfback combination with 17-year-old Catrin Rees coming in for Laura Marsh while 20-year-old Jodie Evans replaces Karen Mayze. Jess Kavanagh also makes a welcome return after a lengthy layoff due to a punctured lung and broken ribs.
“This is a real chance for players from both sides to put their hand up for international selection,” said Davies. “We know it’s going to be a tough game as they have a team full of club combinations so they will be familiar with each other.
* Two junior regional games will also be held on Sunday, at Leckwith Stadium. Blues U15s take on Ospreys U15s at 10.45am, followed by the U18 clash between the Blues and Ospreys.
WRU Women’s Regional Championship
Sunday 16 January
Blues v Dragons – 1pm
Ospreys v Scarlets – 2.30pm
WRU Girls Regional fixtures
Sunday 16 January
Blues v Ospreys U15s 10.45am
Blues v Ospreys U18s 12.30am
