FORMER captain James Gaiger has been named as Devizes new first-team manager for the 2015-16 campaign in Southern Counties South.

Recently-retired Gaiger will be supported by Matty Holloran in the role, allowing Gaiger to shadow head coach John Kimberley and develop as a coach as the Saddlebacks aim to bounce back from their relegation from South West One East last season.

Julian Taylor again captains the team, who face Wimborne and Dorchester at the start of the season.

Taylor said: “Last season was the toughest we have experienced, however we have a great opportunity to bounce back this year.

“It is going to be extremely hard facing the likes of Royal Wootton Bassett, who will no doubt be title contenders. Sherborne are always competitive, and going to places such as Dorchester and Frome is never easy.

“We are really motivated to put things right and get the club to the level it belongs.”

Devizes finished the season strongly despite relegation, thumping promotion-chasing Towcestrians in their final match, and host Bath side Avon in a pre-season friendly under lights on Thursday, August 27 (7pm).

The first and second teams then head to Thatcham on Saturday, September 5 (3pm) before the season proper starts a week later.

Elsewhere, former Colts head coach Chris Hiscock has been named as second XV captain with Chris Conway the team manager.

Paul Naish continues as third XV manager with 19 year old Matt Bishop named as captain.

Devizes Ladies have Andy Patterson and Luke Cador joined by Leon Sheppard on the coaching team and Kate Stradling brought back as captain.

Any players wishing to join the ladies should contact Patterson on 07944 649124 or Cador on 07747 021915.

To enquire about joining the senior teams contact Gaiger on 07884 490943 or join pre-season training which will start on Thursday at 7pm at Green Lane.