THERE look like being few surprises when Ebbw Vale finalise their team tomorrow for Saturday's Principality Cup semi-final against Llanelli, judging by the 22-man squad named.

Coach Mike Ruddock is still contemplating several combinations and no decision has been made yet on whether injured captain Chay Billen will make a shock return to the team, but it looks likely Ruddock will stick with the side that beat Pontypool in the quarter-finals.

Billen, 27, had been ruled out for the rest of the season with a neck injury which kept him out of the match at Pontypool Park, and is due to have an operation next Tuesday.

But the Wales A lock has sought additional medical advice and put himself forward for selection. Should Ruddock decide not to risk him on the bench, Wales Under-21s lock Damien Hudd will take his place.

There is plenty of competition for midfield places with vice-captain David Weatherley (pictured) back from injury, as well as Rhys Shorney. And with Martin Ridley impressing in Vale's 27-22 quarter-final win, there is a fierce fight to face the Scarlets.

Regular centre Paul Matthews is almost guaranteed to start, with the other three battling to take the remaining place.

Llyr Lane is likely to start at scrum-half, despite the fact that he has been recalled by his club Newport, and the semi-final is likely to be his swansong with the Steelmen before returning to Rodney Parade to cover for the injured Dale Burn.

As in recent matches, ex-Newbridge full back Matt James will probably start at outside half with goal kicker Gareth Cull playing at full back.

Ebbw Vale squad: G Cull, A Wagstaff, R Shorney, M Ridley, D Weatherley, P Matthews, A Takarangi, M James, L Lane, K Ellis, I Thomas, D Penisini, L Phillips, J Evans, M Jones, O Booyse, N Edwards, K Tuipulotu, R Williams, T Morris, W Thomas, D Hudd/C Billen.