But with no club being promoted to the top flight to replace Keys, Caerphilly are right back in the firing line as whipping-boys elect.

However, while there have been no big-name arrivals at Virginia Park over the summer, coach Gareth Nicholas has largely managed to keep his squad together, although No 8 Alfie Mocelutu has joined Neath.

Caerphilly proved themselves to be at least competitive last season and the addition of two Fijians should help them remain that way.

Well-traveled lock/backrow Emori Katalau, recruited from Llanelli after a previous spell with Dunvant, will add experience and power to the Caerphilly scrum.

But it is the other recruit, Seremaia Bai, who could prove to be a game-breaker. Bai joined Cross Keys towards the end of last season and made an immediate impact at both fly-half and centre.

The 22-year-old shows a good tactical awareness with his kicking for a young player and could provide the extra spark Caerphilly require to break well-organised defences.

Caerphilly should enjoy themselves in the European Shield, with Italians Overmach-Parma and French side Stade Rochelais beatable, while Gloucester will provide two welcome cross-border 'derbies'.