THE Basingstoke Buffalo start their season on Saturday with a home challenge game against local rivals the Solent Devils.

The game at the Basingstoke Arena starts at 6.30pm and will be a good test, ahead of their opening game of the season which is at home to the Chelmsford Warriors on September 27 in the South Two Cup.

Once again this season, the Buffalo will be playing in South Two South West, where they will lock horns again with last year's league champions Bristol Pitbulls who just beat them to the title.

Also in the their division are the Cardiff Fire, Swindon Wildcats and Wightlink Tigers.

Most of last season's players are back, so the squad will once again be a good blend of youth and experience.