Saints start their campaign on Saturday against London Welsh at Franklin’s Gardens aware that the visitors will be eager to claim another major scalp at the start of the season.

“London Welsh have recruited well over the summer, bringing in players with plenty of experience,” he said. “We cannot underestimate the problems they can cause us and we will have to be ready from the first whistle.

“Nevertheless our players are ready for that challenge. We have had a tough and physical pre-season from which we have taken many positives. We played well in the second half against Harlequins and will be looking to build on that performance.

“All of the players in the side are there on merit. They have all worked hard over the past few months in the gym and on the training field. Pre-season is one thing however and on Saturday it’s time to get serious.”

Bruce Reihana captains the team from full-back and there is a first senior Saints start for Senior Academy winger Will Harries. Another member of the Senior Academy, hooker Joe Gray is on the bench. There are also full starts for summer signings Dave Ward, Barry Stewart, Karl Rudzki, Barry Everitt and James Downey.

Paul Shields, Robbie Kydd and Jon Clarke were unavailable for selection due to injury.

NORTHAMPTON SAINTS SIDE TO PLAY LONDON WELSH
National League One
Franklin’s Gardens; Saturday, September 1st; kick-off 3pm
15 Bruce Reihana (capt)
14 Paul Diggin
13 Carlos Spencer
12 James Downey
11 Will Harries
10 Barry Everitt
9 Mark Robinson
1 Simon Emms
2 Dave Ward
3 Barry Stewart
4 Damien Browne
5 Alex Rae
6 Karl Rudzki
7 Darren Fox
8 Mark Easter

Replacements
16 Joe Gray
17 Terry Sigley
18 Christian Short
19 Paul Tupai
20 Johnny Howard
21 Stephen Myler
22 Chris Ashton

Saturday's referee is Mark Wilson. The 41-year-old took up the whistle 12 years ago and has been on the Panel of National Referees for seven years. He is employed in street light construction and his ambition is to enjoy every single game of rugby he referees.

Tickets are still available for Saturday's match from the Saints Ticket Office. Today is also your last chance to buy a Triple Taster Ticket for the first three home matches of the season. Call 01604 581000 for more information.