Jenkins led Cardiff to a dramatic 31-30 victory over Gloucester Rugby in the 2018 Challenge Cup final but picked up a serious injury in an international fixture with Wales later that year.

The 27-year-old, who scored in the quarter-final against Edinburgh Rugby en route to lifting the Challenge Cup, had three operations during a recovery period that was riddled with setbacks.

But Jenkins will finally make his return to the pitch as Cardiff take on Guinness PRO14 and Challenge Cup rivals Ospreys in a friendly at Cardiff Arms Park on Friday.

A Wales captain at both U20s and senior level, the all-action back-rower will provide Cardiff with added leadership in their bid to qualify for the Challenge Cup knockout stage.

Cardiff have won both their games in this season’s competition, leaving them third in the Preliminary Stage table - one point behind Ospreys and leaders London Irish.

Cardiff Blues flanker Ellis Jenkins is set to return from a knee injury that has kept him out of action for more than two years.