Gloucester-Hartpury travel to Cobham for their first fixture of the 2022/23 season this weekend against Harlequins (Saturday 24 September, KO 2:30pm) after having a bye in the opening round of the Allianz Cup last week.

Captain for the weekend, Neve Jones, says 'bring it on' as her side finally get their chance to play competitive action after a tough pre-season.

"It's been a long pre-season and the girls have worked very hard so we're excited to take to the field and put what we've worked on into practise."

Their opponents Harlequins began their season last weekend with a 16-13 loss away to University of Worcester Warriors but Irish international Jones knows a trip to the 2021 Allianz Premier 15s winners is always a challenge.

"Harlequins bring a big physical game so it will be a good challenge for us to start the season and whatever they put towards us we'll put our best foot forward and hopefully get the win."

With the delayed Rugby World Cup 2021 meaning many internationals miss the start of the club season, Jones is expecting the talented younger players to have a breakthrough season and add great strength in depth for the club.

"It's fantastic to see all of our girls going away to the World Cup and we wish them all the best. We've brought a load of girls in and its a great time for them to shine through before the other girls come back to challenge."

Captain Neve Jones thrilled for competitive rugby to return

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