FLY-HALF Rory Brown will be aiming to lead Devizes to victory on his debut as captain as they open their Southern Counties South campaign at Thatcham on Saturday.

The Saddlebacks, under new director of rugby Joe Alford, have enjoyed a successful pre-season, including a comfortable 40-12 win over Wolverhampton and a tough 19-19 draw against Avon.

After a disappointing season last year, when they finished eighth, head coach James Gaiger has added experience in half-back Andy Thompson and prop Tom Reed, while number eight Brian Hopkins has joined the squad, as well as an influx of youth players that have graduated into the senior set-up.

Devizes second team also has a new look and feel to it with Kieran Hiscock as skipper, as they look to continue their excellent run of form from the end of last season into this term's Dorset & Wilts Two North campaign.

Elsewhere, Corsham start their Southern Counties South campaign away to Walcot this Saturday with Minety travelling to Warminster in Dorset & Wilts One North.