MIKE Ruddock has challenged his Worcester Warriors to step up another gear when they tackle Moseley at Sixways on Saturday – and revealed new fly-half Matthew Jones is set to make his home debut.

Director of rugby Ruddock has admitted the clash on home soil - which is Tony Windo’s testimonial game - is crucial to his plans as the new Guinness Premiership season ticks ever closer.

Ruddock is expected to name a strong side for the clash with the National Division One side, including new stand-off Matthew Jones making his home bow against the club he played for last term.

“We are looking forward to the visit of Moseley on Saturday; the fixture is a very important one for us for a number of reasons,” said Ruddock.

“It gives us an immediate opportunity to put in practice some improvements we are hoping to make from our last game with Doncaster Knights.

“It also gives me the chance to see some new combinations and some new players starting for the first time, for example Matt Jones who will start at 10.

“The game itself provides the players with a chance to really put their hands up for selection in future games, in particular selection for the Ulster game which really should form the basis of our playing panel for the first league game with Northampton Saints.”

Ruddock described the game as a fitting tribute to the work that former front row stalwart Windo had done and continued to do with Warriors.

But the Worcester boss stressed any sentiment would be left on the sidelines for a crucial game in the pre-season plans.

“The match is a wonderful chance to pay tribute to a great servant to the club in Tony Windo,” he said.

“However, I would make it clear that Tony will not be playing in this game as it will be a very serious and competitive match for both teams.”