The traditional derby match needs little hyping up in the eyes of the Valley Commando support who see the opportunity of victory over the capital club as motivation enough. Coming towards the business end of the league campaign the fixture does however carry enough importance in its own rights.
Ponty currently head the Premiership table nine points clear of the chasing pack. Another win would see them take a significant step towards nailing that top spot and home advantage in the Play-Off Final.
Cardiff lie in fifth position, a full 19 points adrift of their opponents but seven points behind third placed Cross Keys and that vital play-off qualification.
Victory carries significant importance for both contestants in the upcoming Valleys v City derby clash.
Pontypridd have already completed a double over Cardiff, winning the BIC qualifier at home by 40pts to 12 on the very first day of the season, then claiming an away league win by 14pts to 6 in late December.
With Wales Sevens and senior Blues call-ups affecting selection, Pontypridd tweak a squad that has successfully strung together a run of five consecutive victories in league and cup.
The versatile and in-form Aled Summerhill moves from centre to full-back with Wales Under 20 star Garyn Smith taking his midfield berth. Another returning from international duties to the starting line-up is outside half Jarrod Evans. Blues lock Chris Dicomidis is drafted in to resume a tried and trusted partnership with Craig Locke in the boilerhouse.
Sidelined through injury is prop Keiron Jenkins who has suffered back spasms in the week leading up to the big match.
Pontypridd: 15.Aled Summerhill. 14.Lewis I Williams. 13.Garyn Smith. 12.Dafydd Lockyer – cpt. 11.Owen Jenkins. 10.Jarrod Evans. 9.Joel Raikes. 1.James Howe. 2.Liam Belcher. 3.Pat Palmer. 4.Craig Locke. 5.Chris Dicomidis. 6.Jake Thomas. 7.Rhys Shellard. 8.Dan Godfrey.
Subs: 16.Lloyd Williams. 17.Gavin Dacey. 18.Dale Stuckey. 19.Huw Dowden. 20.Wayne O’Connor. 21.Jordan Sieniawski. 22.Chris Phillips. 23.Dillon Lewis.
