The William Parker Sports College-based club will travel to Basildon in round one of the EDF Energy Senior Vase.

Ahead of his first competitive match as captain, Steve McManus said: "It's the strongest squad we've had in about eight years, we've got competition in every position."

Basildon came fifth in London Four North East last season with eight wins and 10 defeats, while H&B propped up London Four South East with six victories and 12 losses.

H&B have just about a full squad to pick from as they seek a repeat of their fine victory over Farnham in the corresponding stage of the competition last year.

"I think we're further along this time this year than we were this time last year," added McManus, who sees the game as a useful warm-up for their league opener at home to Charlton Park next weekend.

Cinque Ports, meanwhile, will face Sussex Police at Brighton RFC in round one of the national EDF Energy Junior Vase tomorrow.

Sussex Division Three East outfit Ports are hopeful of putting out a strong first XV against opposition from Sussex Division Three Central.