Danny Southworth is relishing his return to Devon this weekend as Cardiff Rugby take on Exeter Chiefs in Round 4 of the EPCR Challenge Cup. 

The Wales loose-head came through the system at Sandy Park before moving to Cardiff in 2024 and throwing his lot in with the land of his grandmother.

Southworth is one of 10 changes to the Cardiff side that triumphed over Racing 92 last weekend, while Exeter have named a strong team including former Blue & Black pathway products Kane James and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso. 

Just one point separates the two sides in the race to secure a home draw in the Round of 16 and Southworth is relishing the challenge ahead.

He said: “It was awesome for the boys to get back. We knew how important it would be. Racing are a tough outfit, regardless of what team they put out but that’s given us a really good opportunity this weekend to try and push on and get a home knockout game. 

“I can’t wait. When I found out that we drew them (Exeter) a few months ago, I said to Corniel that I want to be involved in this one.

“I’m really excited to get back out there. It’s nice to have a bit of a refresh and I’m ready to go again. 

“Obviously, it’s close to home. I’ve still got a lot of my best friends who still there. I achieved a couple of trophies there with them so I’m really looking forward to going back. I think it will be a good battle and one that I’m relishing.

Back on familiar turf, Southworth is also expecting a sizeable turnout from his home club, Barnstable RFC. 

“I think probably half of Barnstable will be coming up to be honest,” joked Southworth.  

“It’ll be a special day and nice to have a lot of people who  haven’t been able to make the journey up here to come to that game and see a lot of friends and teammates.”

Cardiff have made 10 changes for the encounter, rotating the side with one eye on the United Rugby Championship and trying to strike the right balance in selection. 

A win at Sandy Park would likely secure a home draw in the Challenge Cup, while next Saturday’s Arms Park showdown with Benetton Rugby will be crucial in the race for a URC play-off place. 

Southworth added: “The URC is a very important competition for us and we’re doing well in that but then also if we get a home knockout game that’s massive for the club. It would be massive for the business getting another game at home getting more people through the door.”