Jonathan Davies optimistic about Scarlets return

Wales centre Jonathan Davies is hoping to hand the Scarlets a major fitness boost ahead of their critical Heineken Cup double header against Munster.

The 23-year-old was forced to miss Wales' 24-18 defeat to Australia on Saturday due to a groin injury, but is hopeful of coming through a fitness test to partner Scott Williams when the two-time European champions visit Parc-y-Scarlets this weekend.

Davies said: "I am a lot more confident about playing on Saturday than I was last week. Hopefully everything will be right.

"Obviously I was gutted not to be able to be involved last Saturday. It was a tough decision but it was a wise one in the long term and hopefully it will pay off with me being able to play this weekend.

"Ticket sales are close to a sell-out and it will be a big occasion and the boys are looking forward to giving the fans a good performance and a great result."

Wing George North is also set to be available for the Pool One contest after suffering a dead leg against the Wallabies.

PA