Burntwood RUFC return to the playing field this Saturday (September 3) for their first competitive fixture of the new season.

They welcome Uttoxeter for a Quarter Final tie in the Staffordshire Intermediate Trophy – kick off 3pm.

A busy pre-season campaign has seen warm-up friendly matches against Wednesbury, Rugeley, Cannock and Northampton BBOB as the players have prepared for the season ahead under the guidance of head coach Jimmy Davies, assisted by Graham Shelley and Andy Dodd.

Sean Latham steps into the role of 1st XV captain, having enjoyed a successful run as colts captain in recent seasons, with Luke Rookyard as his vice captain.

Will Marsh not only takes on the 2nd XV captaincy but he has made the remarkable positional switch from wing to lock forward.

Shelley himself will lead the 3rd XV.

Burntwood open their Midlands 3 West North season a week later and the fixture organiser has given them a tough start with the first two matches away from The Sportsway. They face Willenhall on September 10 and then have a local derby at Cannock on September 17.

Their first home fixture is not until October 1O against Clee Hill.

The 2nd XV are also at home to Uttoxeter this Saturday, while the 3rds make their first outing of the season a week later at home to Rugeley 2nds.