TRAINING at the Ospreys won't be for the faint-hearted this season with twin destroyers Jerry Collins and Filo Tiatia in the ranks.

That is the view of Wales lock Ian Evans as he targets a return to regional action next month.

Evans, who has been out for the last 10 months because of a knee reconstruction, is hoping to be back in Ospreys colours for the Magners League clash against Glasgow at Firhill on September 25.

For the 24-year-old there is finally light at the end of the tunnel.

But Evans also knows he is going to have to prove himself in what promises to be a no-nonsense Ospreys training environment, especially following the arrival of former All Black powerhouse Collins (above) from Toulon.

"You don't get so many caps for New Zealand by being an Average Joe, and together with Filo that is some impact in the back row," said the 6ft 8in tower block. "We've started calling them father and son — I know they played a bit together for Wellington a few years ago.

"But when you add quality international players like JT (Jonathan Thomas), Ryan (Jones), to name just a couple, there's going to be intense competition for places this season.

"I think the contact sessions could get a bit fruity."

It is not just in the back row where the Ospreys possess an array of riches.

When fit, Evans will provide new coaching director Scott Johnson with three international second rows at his disposal alongside the experienced Ian Gough and British & Irish Lion Alun Wyn Jones.

Jones, like Evans, won't be back in action until the end of September as the Ospreys, who have yet to name a skipper for the new season, opt to rest their Lions contingent.

"I thought Alun Wyn played tremendously well out in South Africa and I don't think he deserved to be dropped for that second Test," added Evans.

"He has put himself right up there and deserves all the accolades he has got."

ROBERT LLOYD