 Davies (centre) has fallen down the Wales pecking order |
Mefin Davies says he is determined to regain his status as Wales' first-choice hooker this season. Davies, 33, lost his place in the Wales side last season and was omitted from the tour to Argentina in June.
But the Gloucester hooker believes he has a role to play in Gareth Jenkins' new regime and is determined to play in next year's World Cup in France.
"My heart is still set on wearing the red shirt of Wales," Davies told BBC Wales Sport.
"That's why I'm still playing the game. I enjoy playing and I'm looking forward to the new season and the challenge of playing for Gloucester.
 | This competition will ensure the standards keep rising |
"I hope people will watch the games I play for Gloucester because they are huge games week-in-week-out."
Davies was an integral part of Wales' 2005 Grand Slam win, but played second fiddle to Cardiff Blues' Rhys Thomas in last season's Six Nations campaign.
He then stayed at home and watched Scarlets' Matthew Rees and Ospreys pair Huw Bennett and Richard Hibbard given opportunities to impress new Wales coach Jenkins against Argentina.
But the 38-cap man says he is relishing the chance to prove himself against his younger rivals and believes the competition for places can only benefit Wales.
"What's important is that I keep battling - and that's true for every other hooker," Davies said.
"There is a competition and I believe competition is something very healthy.
"We are all aiming towards the same goal - wearing the number two shirt of Wales. This competition will ensure the standards keep rising."
Davies was in Gloucester's starting line-up in Saturday's 19-7 friendly defeat against Llanelli Scarlets at Stradey Park.
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 