Previews for league seasons starting on Saturday

Alchester make their league debut in the BB&O Premier Division this season – just a year after being founded.

The club hail from Bicester and were initially formed of ex-Bicester colts, although their home games will be at Marston Ferry Road, Oxford.

Not everyone agreed with them being given entry straight into the BB&O Premier Division, but they are seeking a top-half finish.

Alchester are coached by Chris Kimber and captained by his son Dan.

in: Sean Cooke (prop), Mataiasi Vave (centre), Esava Rakacikaci (wing/hooker), Adam White (full back), Adam Thompson (centre).

OUT: None.

YOUNG GUN: Ben Ancil (forwards) and Tom Miles (backs).

LAST SEASON: n/a.

MY PREDICTION: Mid-table.

Oxford hope they can mark their centenary season with promotion and by reaching the Oxfordshire Shield final.

They have signed numerous players, but coach Kevin Jones can call upon experienced heads such as Andy McDonald, who is club captain of the Oxford partnership, Mark Viner and Gary Walters.

Elio Recchia will captain the side, while Oxford Harlequins and Chinnor player Owen Gustafson has joined, with Duncan Lynchsmith returning from Quins.

YOUNG GUN: Scrum half John Derrick.

LAST SEASON: 4th MY PREDICTION: Vying for promotion.

Harwell have lost more players than they have gained, but they are looking for youngsters to break through.

They finished last season poorly after a reasonable start.

IN: James Shipman (wing), Stuart Warby (scrum half, West Norfolk), Martin Hannington (prop), Lee Lewis (centre), Tom Jeffries (prop).

OUT: Kev Wood (flanker, travelling), Ryan Hodnett (wing, Wallingford), Tom Eaton (fly half, family commitments), Luke Blewett (flanker, injury), Carl Blewett (prop, injury).

YOUNG GUN: Back-row forwards Paul Reynolds and Rob Corderoy.

LAST SEASON: 11th MY PREDICTION: Relegation candidates.

Abingdon are targeting an improved league finish after struggling at the wrong end last campaign.

Spokesman Ronnie Booth said: “Abingdon will be looking to build on last season where they finished on a high by beating Blue Boar to win the Oxfordshire Shield."

LAST SEASON: 10th.

MY PREDICTION: Survival.

Gosford All Blacks complete the Oxon line-up.