Powell had spent seven seasons at Cardiff Blues, making over 150 appearances for the club, and boasts a wealth of big game experience having played in over 20 Heineken Cup matches.

A former Wales A captain, Powell has won full international honours and under the guidance of Mike Ruddock is determined to stake a claim to the starting number nine shirt.

His progress during 2007/08 was stalled by a broken foot, sustained against the Ospreys, but he still made 17 appearances, including one try against Leeds Carnegie.

Powell signed a new two-year deal with Warriors to commit his future to Warriors until 2010.

"Ryan had a good season evenm though he was hampered by a foot injury suffered early in the campaign," said Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock. "At that time he had secured the number one scrum half position but unfortunately he was unable to build on that because of his broken foot.

"However, over the next two years we expect him to put even more pressure on to secure that starting spot at Warriors.

"Ryan has pace and excellent service and has already been capped by Wales. If he continues the improvement in his game there is a chance that further caps will follow."