Head Coach Dai Flanagan has revealed back row Harri Keddie and scrum half Gonzalo Bertranou are pushing for derby day call-ups – but has warned all players must wait for the right opportunity.
Co-captain Keddie is yet to feature in the BKT United Rugby Championship season this term as he recovers from ankle surgery.
Bertranou has also recently returned from Rugby Championship action with Argentina.
"We've got a couple of players up for selection but they have to wait for their opportunity," he said.
"The squad has been brewing quite nicely in my mind and certain players deserve to be backed.
"Harrison is back up for selection and so is Gonzalo after being back in the mix for a few weeks, but they may just have to wait their turn like everyone else.
"I though certain players would help us in Benetton because of their edge and aggression," added the head coach.
"Some players deserved their opportunity because of how they have trained. This week we have picked our best 23 to go and win the game.
"There is a decent squad here and it's been tough with honest conversations with players.
"Players don't have to agree with it, they have to accept it but they don't have to agree with it.
"They then have to show me a reaction and this is the toughest part of the job, sometimes you just have to go with your gut.
"There are certain positions where I feel there is an advantage to having individuals starting as opposed to the bench."
Flanagan also admits the intensity in training has been noticeable ahead of the derby in the capital.
“I’ve noticed a real edge in training. It’s a big week, it’s the local derby and it’s Cardiff – the boys are excited,” he said.
“We were disappointed with certain aspects last week (against Benetton) and we’ve been working hard to make sure we are better this week. There is no better time than against Cardiff.”
There is a decent squad here and it's been tough with honest conversations with players... Players don't have to agree with it, they have to accept it but they don't have to agree with it...
