MALVERN RFC take a new-look first XV to Hinckley tomorrow to kick-off their National Three Midlands league campaign.

Having lost several of last season’s squad to higher ranked clubs and retirement, including Greg Summers, Ryan Henshaw and Cameron Pimlow, the club have been developing emerging talent over the summer and several are given a start tomorrow.

Included are Sean Robinson at lock, Vernon Thomas at centre and James Bennett on the wing.

Kieron Harvey, who broke into the senior team late last season, is at full back, while Andy Murphy and John Clarke, who also featured last year, are now firmly ensconced in the front row. Murphy’s brother Dominic has also joined Malvern this season.

In the absence of skipper Phil Rawle, Chris Smith captains the side.

Dave Robins, director of rugby, said “As at the start of last year, we have been hampered by injuries, with Simon Daws and James Thomas not quite ready to return to the fray.

“We know that Hinckley are always keen, like us, on an expansive game, so with our quick youngsters in the team we should look forward to a high-octane performance.

“Having lost players is always a blow, but we have never stood in the way of players who wish to better their game at a higher level and wish them well. “I’m excited by the young talent we are bringing through.”

Malvern’s first home game is against Kenilworth on Saturday, September 12 (ko 3pm).

First-team squad v Hinckley (away-ko 3pm)-meet at Spring Lane at 11.30am, Ketch Hotel, Worcester at 11.45am, number one dress code, maroon shorts and socks), from: D Murphy, A Murphy, J Clark, S Robinson, C Smith (c), M Humphreys, C Edwards, J Martin, D Hadkiss, T Longley, T Beechey, R Fleming, V Thomas, J Bennett, K Harvey, W Harris, D Smith, M Chivers.

Second XV v Old Patesians II (home-ko 3pm)-meet at Spring Lane at 1.30pm, from: T Drew, J Redman, R Kitching, G Fraser, L Roleston, S Clark, L Maloney, J Anderson, J Gwynne, A Dixon (c), N Clark, C Heaney, TBA, C Williams, J Alison, C Perkins, J Longley, S Smith, A Jones.

Third XV v Old Patesians III (away-ko 3pm)-meet at Spring at 12.45pm, from: T Wolk (c), M Prosser, S Campbell, R Parker, D Wolf, A Hill, B Merritt, T Hughes, S Cox, L Jenkins, B Sharett, J Tomans, C Hulgate, S Taylor.