FORMER Wales and Newport Gwent Dragons prop Rhys Thomas expects to have to use the carrot rather than the stick to get the most out of some of his former teammates in a charity fixture at Pandy Park on Saturday.

The 33-year-old tighthead will be in charge of a team that will lock horns with one managed by fellow former international Lloyd Burns at Cross Keys (kick-off 3pm).

The pair both had to end their careers early because of heart conditions and their chosen charities – Welsh Hearts for hooker Burns, the British Heart Foundation for tighthead prop Thomas – will profit from the event.

The likes of Gavin Thomas, Jason Forster, Ceri Jones, Barry Davies, Adam Black, Nathan Brew, Hal Luscombe, Andy Powell, Lenny Woodard, Richie Rees, Steve 'Jabba' Jones, Morgan Stoddart, Shaun Connor, Scott Morgan and Adam Jones have committed to donning the boots.

Thomas, who is still involved in the game coaching youngsters at Newport High School Old Boys, said: "I don't know if I'll be bossing them around, I think I'll need to be encouraging them to stay on the pitch!

"There will be a few young'uns playing while some of the older players will need more encouragement than others and there will be first aid nearby.

"I'm a bit concerned about Steve Jones and Adam Black – 'Jabba' looks like he has eaten plenty of sausages while 'Blacky' looks about six months pregnant.

"I'm going to be team manager and I guess one of my big jobs will be to make sure there are enough beers for after the match.

"It's nice to get a bunch of old friend and players together; it should be a great event and hopefully we will raise plenty of money for good causes."

Tenor Wynne Evans will sing the national anthem before the game while Wales and Lions number eight Taulupe Faletau will be signing autographs.

There will also be a mini rugby game (kick-off 11am) and post-match entertainment provided by the band 4th Street as well as activities for the family and a hog roast while the FA Cup final will be shown in the clubhouse after the game.

Tickets cost £6.50 and are available from the Pandy Park clubhouse or can be bought on the day.