In Pool B there’s a full round of fixtures with Llandovery, Llanelli and Swansea looking to keep tabs on leaders Carmarthen Quins.
The Quins have won all four of their games in the competition to sit pretty at the top with 19 points.
They remain the team set to finish ahead of the rest, but they’ll face a tough challenge against Llandovery who were beaten by Llanelli in their last Premiership fixture.
Swansea, who have also been struggling in the league, are yet to win a Challenge Cup game this season and will be looking to build some momentum early on in 2017.
They face Llanelli at St Helen’s hoping home advantage can be to their benefit.
While Pool B looks done and dusted in the Quins’ favour, things are a lot tighter in Pool C. Valley rivals Pontypridd and Merthyr are locked together, both on 11 points, two clear of Bargoed in third.
There’s still all to play for with Pontypridd hosting Bargoed and Merthyr facing the Steelmen of Ebbw Vale. A defeat for either could spell the end of their chances of progression.
In Pool D, leaders Bridgend travel to Cardiff while Neath host Aberavon. The Ravens are having a disappointing league campaign but win in the capital and they are likely to be in with a chance of cup silverware.
The last of Wednesday’s fixtures sees Cross Keys host Bedwas in Pool A.
The latter have been playing some impressive rugby to challenge for the Premiership title but Keys, who haven’t made the domestic league’s top eight, have disappointed.
That said they are always a tough test at Pandy Park and this should be no different.
Foster’s Challenge Cup fixtures – January 11 (all kick-offs 7.15pm)
Cross Keys v Bedwas
Carmarthen Quins v Llandovery
Swansea v Llanelli
Merthyr v Ebbw Vale
Pontypridd v Bargoed
Cardiff Rugby v Bridgend
Neath v Aberavon
