PENRYN back row George Jones will take his place in Cornwall's starting XV that will take on Surrey in their opening County Championship match in Richmoond on Saturday.

Jones was part of an enlarged squad of 50 in January and takes his place in the final 22 alongside Borough team mate Grant Randlesome.

CRFU President Peter James said: “The months of hard work and preparation are now coming to a head with this our first game of the season in the competition at Richmond RFC on Saturday, May 6. On behalf of the CRFU I would like to thank our sponsors St Austell Brewery, Kelsall Steele & Whirlwind Sports. Those thanks also go to Graham and all volunteers who have assisted with the preparation of the team and match day organisation.”

Cornwall face three games in the opening group stages during May.

Cornwall coach Graham Dawe said: “The 2017 season is upon us and this first match has allowed us to consider players who were not available for the Tamar Cup squad. From our initial squad we have selected our 22; other players will be available and in contention for the next game. No-one’s place is guaranteed, and competition for squad places is still very much available to all members of the enlarged squad.”

Cornwall next face Devon at Ivybridge RFC on Saturday 13 May. The following week they host Hertfordshire at Camborne RFC on Saturday 20 May.

Cornwall captain Jake Murphy said: “To captain Cornwall this season is a fantastic honour and I am really proud to be given the role. The enlarged squad has been together since February and we have become a tight knit bunch of guys from many different clubs. We hope our fantastic support led by Trelawny’s army and expats from around the country will come out in force at Richmond to lift the guys for this important first game.”

Marketing and sponsorship opportunities for this season are now limited due to demand. Any individuals or companies that may be interested in future opportunities are asked to contact Colin Hatch in the first instance. Email – hatch0348@btinternet.com

Cornwall team:

1. Tommy Phillips Redruth

2. Richard Brown Redruth

3. Craig Williams Redruth

4. Bryn Jenkins Barnstaple

5. Tony Whittle Camborne

6. Chris Fuca Redruth

7. George Jones Penryn

8. Barry-John Chapman Redruth

9. Jack Oulton Redruth

10. David Mankee Camborne

11. Robin Wedlake Plymouth Albion

12. Jake Murphy Barnstaple

13. Seti Raumakita Plymouth Albion

14. Lewis Vinnicombe Redruth

15. Joe Elderkin Redruth

16. TBC

17. Dominic Connor Brixham

18. Brad Howe Redruth

19. Andruis Zacharias Camborne

20. Grant Randlesome Penryn

21. Tom Notman Camborne

22. Jack Simmons Camborne

Travelling reserves:

23 Sean Buzza Redruth

24 Declan Matthews Redruth

25 Richard Friend Launceston

Coaches – Graham Dawe + Marek Churcher + Rhodri McAtee

Strength & Conditioning Tristan Lark