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Mefin Davies is on course to complete a remarkable transformation in fortunes after being thrown on the professional scrapheap in his own country.

Less than a year ago, the Wales hooker had returned to part-time work in engineering after the sudden demise of the Celtic Warriors regional team.

But by the end of this season, Davies could find himself reflecting on a Welsh Six Nations Grand Slam, a Powergen Cup final appearance and a new Gloucester contract.

"It has been a brilliant move - I am really enjoying it," said Davies, who was the highest-profile casualty of the Warriors' descent into oblivion.

"It is a new start for me, working with new players, new coaches and playing at new venues. I've thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of it."

A week after helping Wales to a memorable victory in Paris, Davies will turn his attention to an English cup semi-final as Gloucester take on West country rivals Bath at Kingsholm.

MEFIN DAVIES Position: Hooker Born: 2/9/72 Height: 5ft 10in Weight: 15st 0lb Caps: 27 Club career: Camarthen, Dunvant, Neath, Pontypridd, Celtic Warriors, Gloucester

Eight points adrift of the Zurich Premiership play-off positions and with work to do to secure Heineken Cup qualification, the success of their season is likely to hinge on winning the Powergen Cup.

On a personal level though, Davies is glad merely to have revived his own fortunes.

"It is unbelievable, really, after what was such a difficult year," he added.

"Most clubs in England and France had already sorted out their players, and when the Celtic Warriors disbanded, it was all at the wrong time.

"There were times when I didn't see a light, really, but you have got to believe in yourself, and I had great support from my close family and friends.

"Being called up for the (Neath-Swansea) Ospreys regional team a number of times was great, and then the opportunity came to join Gloucester.

If you lose the desire to play for your country you might as well give up Mefin Davies

"I don't think people in Wales thought I would go, but it was the right move for me, without a shadow of a doubt."

Davies made a 27th Test appearance during Wales' spectacular victory over France last weekend, and the lure of further international honours saw him turn his back on a move to Paris-based Stade Francais.

"Last summer, there was an opportunity for me to go to Stade Francais," recalled Davies.

"I went over to Paris, met them and everything was right, bar one thing - they wanted me to give up international rugby.

"If you have got a desire to play for your country, and if you give that up, then you might as well give up the game."