THERE are intriguing ties involving Newport, Cross Keys and Ebbw Vale as the trio vie to be inaugural Foster’s National Sevens champions on Sunday, Aug-ust 25.

The Black and Ambers face fierce rivals Cardiff, Keys take on Bridgend, while the Steelmen are up against Llanelli in the first round.

The tournament, hosted at Cardiff Arms Park with its new artificial 4G pitch on a bank holiday weekend, has a sudden death format with no group stage.

There are 16 teams taking part – 12 Principality Premiership sides, Swalec Championship winners Vale and runners-up Bargoed along with RGC 1404 and the Welsh Students.

At yesterday’s draw, Newport’s captain last season, tighthead prop Gethin Robinson, was looking forward to next month’s event.

“It would have to be Cardiff wouldn’t it? No, I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.

“I won’t be playing of course – at least I hope not! No, it will be a good spectacle and a lot of fun.

“It’s a different environment to play each other in with a bit of friendly rivalry.”

Keys have a great chance of doing well because two new signings in Aaron Bramwell and Rhys Jones have a strong pedigree, having played sevens for Wales.

“It’s an interesting draw for us because Bridgend are a young side who can run a bit,” Bramwell said.

“Hopefully my experience and Rhys’ with Wales will help us and we can do the club proud.”

Ebbw Vale’s Kier Hughes is relishing an exciting opportunity: “I can’t wait to play on the Arms Park and the new 4G pitch.

“It’s a fantastic prospect and hopefully there’ll be a big crowd.”

The all-day event sees the gates open at 9.30am, the first match kicking-off at 10.20am with the final due to take place at 6pm.

The event is aimed at all age groups and includes a family fun area with face painting, rugby skills activities, bouncy castles, live music and more.

Full first round draw: Pontypridd v Neath, Llandovery v Bargoed, Llanelli v Ebbw Vale, Bedwas v Aberavon, Bridgend v Cross Keys, Cardiff v Newport, Swansea v RGC1404, Welsh Students v Carmarthen Quins.

-Tickets are on sale now at £10 for adults, £5 for Under-16s and £20 for a family ticket (two adults, two children).

Go to wru.co.uk/nationalsevens to buy tickets or call 0844 8471881 (Ticketmaster) or 02920 230130 (Ticketline). You can also buy tickets from the Welsh Rugby Union shop at 8 Westgate Street, Cardiff or from Ticketline, 47 Westgate Street in the city centre.