Rugby Union: Bradford and Bingley start their season tomorrow in the grand manner, entertaining Edinburgh Academicals in the 100th meeting of what is one of the sport's great club rivalries.

And what's more the Revival Trophy will be at stake for the 13th time.

Bees' rugby chairman John Fletcher is delighted that his side are beginning against such stiff opposition.

"Edinburgh Academicals is a nice way to open the campaign, and they will provide a severe test," he said. "However, they will be in the same boat as us as far as preparedness is concerned. We will both be a little ring-rusty, but have things to prove.

"But if you are going to play a match, it may as well be against tough, rather than weak, opposition as the first league match is just around the corner."

Bradford and Bingley have named a squad of 17, with the likelihood of more being added.

Included are former Bradford Grammar School pupil Matthew Inman - a goal-kicking centre who has been signed from Halifax - ex-Old Crossleyans flanker Mark Thomas, and centre or winger Richard Kelt, who has returned after a couple of seasons at Otley.

Academicals, who are still reeling from the shock-waves of the formation of Super District Edinburgh Reivers, include ex-Scottish age group internationals Kenny Baillie (full back) and Craig Murray (centre).

Scrum half Chris Black was on the replacements' bench for the Reivers against Pontypridd on Tuesday. The match tomorrow kicks-off at 2.30pm to give staff more time to prepare for the after-match celebratory dinner (6.30pm).

Referee is top international Ed Morrison, who is also speaking at the dinner.

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