From Scottish Rugby website – In an early Border derby, Hawick, who lost out in the playoff semi-final last season, start by hosting Selkirk at Mansfield Park.
Selkirk will no doubt look to make an impression in their opening round following last season’s performance, which saw them placed 9th in the table ahead of relegated Aberdeen Grammar.
It has been some eight months since the two sides met, having last played in December at Philiphaugh, where the visitors edged the win by just five points, 9-14.
Hawick’s Matt Carryer said: “It’ll just be a typical Border derby I would say. It’ll be quite forwards orientated, so it’ll be tough.”
“Selkirk probably didn’t have as good a season as they’d want last year, but they’ve recruited quite well this year going by their social media.”
“We’re really looking forward to this game and hopefully we can get off to a winning start.”
Selkirk vice-captain Bruce Riddell said: “What better game to start with than a Border derby! I think Hawick were one of the strongest teams in the Borders last year, so it starts with a bang and I think ultimately from a spectators point of view, it’s getting back down to these clubs and wanting to see the Border clubs thrive.”
