Griffiths said: ''It has been a year of ups and downs and the run without a win at the start of the season was the first time I have ever experienced something like that in my entire career.

''But in many ways it galvanised the players and coaching staff and made us even stronger and the team we are today.

The ultimate challenge now is to take Warriors into a regular spot in the top six and beyond.

''How fantastic it is after all the trials and tribulations of this season that we are also just one game away from the Heineken Cup next season.

''I have been nothing but impressed with the way the club is planning to take off and grow with the new stadium development and the strides being made by the
players on the pitch.

''The vision at Worcester is to be the very best, and that is part of an exciting journey that I am delighted to be a part of.''

Griffiths was part of the Wales coaching staff under Ruddock that enjoyed Six Nations title and Grand Slam glory in 2005, and after renewing his partnership with Ruddock a year ago they have transformed Worcester's style of play since Christmas.

And victory over Bath at Kingsholm this weekend would give them a Heineken Cup place for the first time in their history.