Saturday sees the return of the Tyrrells Premier 15s for its third season, as the Sharks take on Loughborough in Round 1. Both the Sharks and Development XVs are in action, kicking off at 3pm and 5pm respectively.

Loughborough will no doubt provide tough opposition for the Sharks, having finished 3rd in the table last season. The Lightning lineup is likely to feature a number of familiar faces, with former Sharks amongst their ranks including Katy Daley-McLean and Jo Brown. Also making the move South over the summer were Kat Hobson and Rachael Woosey, alongside a number of summer signings for Rhys Edwards' side.

The Sharks have also strengthened their squad with a host of summer arrivals, including 5 Scotland internationals. Abi Evans, Sarah Law, Lana Skeldon, Rachel McLachlan and Liz Musgrove have all joined the Sharks ranks over the summer, as well as a number of other signings.

Previous games between the two sides have resulted in 3 wins for Loughborough, with 1 victory for the Sharks. That win was a memorable one for Justin Loveridge's side, as it was their first in Premier 15s competition. New Sharks skipper Kenny Thomas scored an important try that day to help her side to a narrow 16-10 win, and the Canadian will be hoping for a similar result on Saturday!

Stay tuned for more on Saturday's game, including squad information and team news.