Kiba’s back ahead of Raiders’ first friendly

Richards was offered a NPC contract in New Zealand, where he has been playing over the summer, so Raiders head coach Kieron Dawson is delighted that he has returned to the club before the start of the season.

Dawson said: “Kiba’s a big character and a fantastic player. All the lads are happy he’s back and it’s a big boost for everyone.

“He got offered a NPC contract but decided to come back here because he enjoys playing for Raiders so much.”

Former Worthing coach Ian Davies brings his Cornish Pirates side to Roundstone Lane on Saturday as Raiders begin the build-up to their first-ever season in National 1.

The game is free entry for spectators, with a 3pm kick-off, and Dawson said: “With the return of Ian Davies and playing a Championship side, it should be a big draw for local rugby fans.

“Ian’s highly-respected in the rugby world and is the most successful coach to come out of Sussex for a long time.

“The result doesn’t matter on Saturday, it’s just about getting ready for the first game, so we’ll be trying a few different things out and we’ll have a couple of guys who have been training with us throughout the summer playing.”

Finlay Coxon-Smith is back with Raiders and Darren Clayton returned to training this week.