There will be a cosmopolitan flavour around Southend rugby club tomorrow when they open their National League Three South campaign at Warner's Bridge against North Walsham, kick-off 3pm.

The Seasiders have been on a busy recruitment drive over the summer, bringing in new players from all corners of the Earth.

Southend have signed three South Africans, Maso Bowes, Jaco Du Toit, and Jan Botha, plus New Zealanders Craig Lyons and Bradley Tutua.

Danish player Jesper Jensen is also one of 17 new players as is Harlequins under-21 star Brendon Leask.

Jamie Connor has also been named as Southend's new captain, following the departure of former skipper James Shearing, who has taken a break to go travelling.

Published Friday September 3, 2004

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