Paul Allen busy building squad at Shelford Rugby Club

Shelford will be able to call on military firepower in London League One next season.

Head coach Paul Allen is continuing to build the squad after last season’s relegation with new arrivals and re-signings to boot.

The British Army’s Effkay Koroibanuve has been posted locally after a period away so has committed for the 2019/20 season.

“Effkay is a pretty special signing and it’s great he is now with us all season,” said Allen.

“We met at the recent Shelford 7’s and discussed the club and its plans.

“Effkay was keen to get some regular rugby under his belt as well as representing the Army when called upon.”

Soldiers Tukzz Naulusala and Matty Eyres have also re-signed after struggling to play last season.

Fijian winger Naulusala said: "I've not really had the chance to show Shelford what I can do and with the new set up I look forward to the challenge ahead.”

Eyres added: "It was a tough year and we had so many injuries, myself included, but I knew how short we were on occasions so probably played when I really shouldn't have but I can't wait to be back to full fitness and part of what lies ahead.”

Lewis Cracknell, who has been at Shelford since he was six and made his 50th first-team appearance last season, has committed his future to the club.

"Lewis is a great example of a local lad pushing through to the first XV and making a real name for himself,” said Allen.

“He has a dream of a left foot and coupled with his all round skill set will continue to develop as we move through the season."