New region plan 'shocks' Davies

Mefin Davies was a victim of the Celtic Warriors' demise

Former Wales hooker Mefin Davies says he is surprised at plans to resurrect a fifth rugby regional team in Wales.

The Leicester hooker was one of several players who found themselves left out in the cold when the Celtic Warriors were culled in 2004 for cost reasons.

"It's amazing how people change their minds... it's a huge shock," he said.

"After closing one with a lot of disharmony, which was quite difficult and a lot of people had to go elsewhere to play rugby, you have to ask 'why'?"

When the plug was pulled on the Bridgend-based Warriors, Davies was not offered a place on the playing staff of the remaining four regions.

He eventually left Wales and signed for English Premiership side Gloucester.

If it's done correctly and for the right reasons then I wish a new region all the best Mefin Davies

"They want a stronger player base but how strong is the region going to be and where is it going to be?" Davies added.

"When the regions got created in the first place there was big talk of having a region in north Wales.

"There was so much discussion of where and who was merging but... unfortunately for personal reasons people looked after themselves.

"The financial backing is another huge element, but if it's done correctly and for the right reasons then I wish it all the best.

"I do think there's a place for the game in north Wales because of the catchment area giving opportunities to schoolchildren."

Davies was speaking after his Leicester side beat the Ospreys 30-17 in a pre-season game at the Liberty Stadium.

The match doubled as a benefit for the Ospreys' Wales and Lions wing Shane Williams, who has been awarded a benefit year.

Davies paid tribute to his compatriot, the pair of them having cut their professional teeth with Neath at the Gnoll.

"I'm so glad for Shane, what he's achieved in his whole rugby career starting from Amman United... he's just got better and better," Davies said.

"Over the last Six Nations he was amazing and there's no doubt he's one of the best players ever."