Whilst most eyes will be on the 14 Ospreys involved in international action this weekend, another flock of Ospreys will be soaring into action closer to home tonight when 16 players go into Welsh Premiership action for clubs across the region.
With almost a month between last month's Heineken Cup victory over Bourgoin and next weekend's Magners League game at the Liberty Stadium against Connacht, Lyn Jones has acted to ensure some valuable game time for a number of players by releasing them to turn out for the five Premiership clubs in the region.
League leaders Neath lead the way in terms of representation, with Steve Tandy, Jonathan Spratt, Tom Smith and Craig Mitchell set to pull on the black jersey for the top of the table clash against Ebbw Vale at Eugene Cross Park, whilst another four Ospreys, Johnny Vaughton, Ben Lewis, Michael Collins and Ed Shervington will turn out for Swansea against Bedwas at St Helen's.
Bridgend will be boosted for their trip to the capital to face third placed Cardiff by the inclusion of Cai Griffiths, Mike Powell, David Bishop and Martin Roberts, Maesteg will include forwards Andy Lloyd and Lyndon Bateman when they entertain Newport whilst Aberavon will be reinforced by the presence of Shaun Connor and Aled Brew when they visit Pontypridd.
Head Coach Lyn Jones said:
"Some of these players haven't had much game time lately, and with an important game against Connacht coming up that is vital to us if we are to ensure qualification for next season's Heineken Cup we felt that it would be good for them to get back onto the pitch and get some valuable action under their belts, especially with our clubs not playing against each other.
"We have an awful lot of rugby to play over the next three months and everyone of these players will have a part to play so its crucial that they are ready for action. With that in mind, the matches this weekend are very important to us and we'll be monitoring their performances.
"We have a fantastic relationship with all the clubs in the region and instances like this weekend, where all parties benefit through these player appearances, only serve to strengthen those relationships."
All Ospreys supporters are invited to pop along to watch their local club's in action tonight and offer their support to both the club's and the Ospreys involved.
Match details:
All games kick-off at 7.15pm
Cardiff V Bridgend
Ebbw Vale V Neath
Maesteg V Newport
Pontypridd V Aberavon
Swansea V Bedwas