Captain Chris Pennell believes tackling the likes of Argentina and Melbourne Rebels in pre-season is the ideal preparation for a return to the uncompromising world of the Aviva Premiership.
Warriors have confirmed they will face the might of international giants Argentina (August 23) and Super 15 stars Melbourne Rebels (August 15) ahead of the big kick-off in September.
A trip to Plymouth Albion (August 20) and a home clash with Cornish Pirates on Open Day (August 27) completes a difficult set of warm-up games.
However, Pennell believes the standard of opposition is precisely what the squad requires to ensure they hit the right levels immediately.
“It is hugely important going into the Premiership that we are playing against minimum Premiership opposition in pre-season,” said the full back.
“With a Super 15 team and international team to face it will stand us in good stead. It will prepare us physically so we know, come the first game with Sale, what the standards are in terms of physicality.
“In years gone past we have possibly had some easier pre-season games, in terms of the physicality and intensity. No disrespect to the teams we have played, but this is a completely different level of fixture this season.
“These games can only be a positive thing for us as players and also the club, for the supporters it adds a whole new dimension to the pre-season friendly… if you can call it that. It might not be so friendly now there are people out there keen to prove points.”
Meanwhile, Pennell has revealed the new arrivals at Sixways have all settled in quickly and are already in the middle of dressing room banter.
“All the new lads have settled in well. They are good guys and it is always a good indication when in just a few days they have all picked up slightly offensive nicknames,” laughed Pennell.
“That means they are already part of the group and the settling in process is underway. I hope they all feel excepted and over the next couple of weeks, as they get living arrangements sorted out, things will only improve. We are all together as a team and that makes it a positive place to be.”
Tickets for the games with Melbourne Rebels and Argentina are on sale NOW. Call the Warriors Box Office on 01905 454183 or click HERE to buy online.