By Andrew Collins
December 2 2005

The Blues have selected a strong squad to travel to Raeding on Sunday. The Cardiff outfit welcome back all their Welsh squad members as Dai seeks an outside chance of qualification or at very least a moral boost before nest weeks Heineken cup match against Calvasano.

Chris Czekaj, Nick Robinson, Mike Phillips, Andy Powell, John Yapp and Robin Sowden-Taylor are all thrown straight back into the starting line up following minor roles with Wales. International colleagues, Rhys Thomas, Robert Sidoli and Martyn Williams make the bench.

Rhys Williams, Chris Czekaj and Craig Morgan return as a trio following Roger Warrens debut, he's dropped from the squad with the return of CC.

In the centre, Strchebina plays at 13 with jamie Robinson on the bench, inside him is Tristand Davies. Mike Phillips and Nick Robinson return at half back.

Andy Powells call-up had given him fresh hope in a Wales shirt, he'll be looking to continue his form this season as he starts at number8. Xavier Rush is injured, but expected back for Calvasano. Also in the back row, Kort Schubert and Robin Sowden-Taylor start.

Deiniol Jones is partnered by James Goode, Sidoli is given a breif restbyte on the bench.

Ben Evans and Yapp prop up, with Gareth Williams keeping the hooking spot, despite pressure from Rhys Thomas.

Cardiff can still qualify, but need Wasps to lose at home to Sacacens, with neither side getting a bonus point and Cardiff picking up all 5 at the Majetski stadium. However, this competition does seem to be getting the most out of the Capital region. A drumming of Saracens back in October, followed by a spirited performance against Wasps may be reason for some hope.

Team:
Rhys Williams (c), Chris Czekaj, Marc Stcherbina, Tristan Davies, Craig Morgan, Nicky Robinson, Mike Phillips, Andy Powell, Robin Sowden-Taylor, Kort Schubert, James Goode, Deiniol Jones, Ben Evans, Gareth Williams, John Yapp.

Martin Jones, T. Rhys Thomas, Robert Sidoli, Martyn Williams, Ryan Powell, Lee Thomas, Jamie Robinson

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Good news for Blues fans is that roaring Lion, Gethin Jenkins was available but for the match and should be in the squad for Calvasano next week, with Young resting his prise asset.

However bad news realting to Gethin's Lions partner, Tom Shanklin. The highly rated centre, already set to miss most of the season, may have to retire from rugby altogether if his operation doesn't work as well as hoped. He is confident he can make a return before the end of the season, but if complications continue, he'll be lucky to get back at all.