EBBW Vale’s first trip to Scotland in the new cross-border competition will be to the famous Watsonians club.

The Steelmen qualified for the new tournament by finishing in the top six of the Premiership last season.

Their reward is encounters against the Scottish Super6 teams – Watsonians, Heriot's, Stirling County, Boroughmuir, Southern Knights and Ayrshire Bulls.

Ebbw aim to steer clear of Premiership relegation and will then take part in tussles with the Scots, with their opener against the Knights, a rebranded Melrose, followed by the trip to Edinburgh to face Watsonians.

Jonathan Jones, chairman of Ebbw Vale and the Premiership clubs, said: “We’re really excited about this opportunity of cross-border competition against these Scottish teams.

“It is a welcome new addition to our season for everyone involved. As a club we have an old friendship with Watsonians which we are looking forward to renewing – the supporters are already looking at which match – or matches – they can organise trips to!”

Ebbw Vale fixtures

  • April 25: Southern Knights (home)
  • May 2: Watsonians (away)
  • May 9: Ayrshire Bulls (home)
  • May 16: Heriots (home)
  • May 23: Stirling County (away)
  • May 30: Boroughmuir Bears (away)