SWINDON Robins will start their 2016 season with a trip to Somerset Rebels for a challenge match against the Premier League side.

Alun Rossiter’s side are set to visit the Oaktree Arena on Friday, March 18, and will be led by Jason Doyle who was part of the Rebels’ Premier League title-winning side of 2013.

Robins duo Josh Grajczonek and Charles Wright will represent both teams in the upcoming season, having been retained by the Rebels during the close season.

“It will mean the return to the Oaktree Arena for one of the club’s favourite sons, and I know from when I spoke to Jason on the phone recently that he is already really looking forward to the meeting and being back here, even if it is for just the one night,” said Somerset promoter Debbie Hancock.

“With it also being the first occasion that our fans will see our new septet take to home shale, it all promises to be a great way to open our 2016 season, and something to really look forward to.”