Having joined the club post-Covid, the second row went onto play a crucial role in the 2022/23 Counties Two Tribute Berks, Bucks & Oxon South triumph.

He now steps up as the Mighty Cents target a repeat, supported by new vice-captain Jack Williams.

Having first arrived at Old Bath Road as a six-year-old Mini, the versatile back row – who can also play in the engine room – was also a key cog in the success two seasons ago.

Indeed, his family ties to Rams go right back to the beginning, his great grandfather being Gwyn Francis.

The Centaurs have enjoyed a successful pre-season with a 36-34 win against Reading 2nd XV followed by a 38-5 setback at an impressive Chinnor Wildboys.

Last time out they defeated Bracknell 2nd XV 38-17, with the opening league fixture at Maidenhead 2nd XV under the Friday Night Lights (8.15pm).

New coach Jack Gaylor has been pleased with the effort so far, and especially the numbers attending training, while Chairman Andy Lynch was delighted with what he’s seen so far.

He said: “It will be interesting to see how they go, but it’s great to see they’ve taken the bull by the horns, had up to 30-plus players including lots of last year’s Colts training, and Jack has done a fantastic job getting things back to where they need to be.”