Season takes shape as Pirates confirm home opener at The Mennaye

The Cornish Pirates will begin their 2026–27 Championship campaign in front of a home crowd this September (credit: Cornish Pirates)

The Cornish Pirates will begin their 2026–27 Championship campaign in front of a home crowd this September.

On the weekend of September 19, the Pirates will host Doncaster Knights at The Mennaye. Exact kick‑off times - and whether fixtures fall on Saturday or Sunday - are still to be confirmed, but today’s release of the full fixture list gives supporters their first look at the season ahead.

After welcoming Doncaster, the Pirates will travel to Coventry the following weekend as they look to build early momentum in an increasingly competitive league.

The club has also strengthened its squad with the signing of GB 7s winger Josh Radcliffe, adding power, pace and versatility to the backline.

Radcliffe - an Australian‑born, Scottish‑qualified back - has been part of the GB 7s programme since late last year, competing on the World Sevens circuit and lining up against fellow new recruit Henry Palmer.

Standing at 6ft 4 and weighing over 100kg, he brings significant physical presence and experience across both sevens and the 15‑a‑side game.

He has previously represented New Zealand Universities and featured for Super Rugby’s Waikato Chiefs, adding valuable Southern Hemisphere pedigree to the Pirates’ squad.

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Joint Head Coach Gavin Cattle said Radcliffe’s attributes would offer balance and depth across the backline: “Josh has been with GB 7s since December. He’s tall, rangy and athletic. His versatility across the backline gives us good balance. He’s keen to prove himself and progress his rugby. We are looking forward to welcoming him and helping him progress.”

Radcliffe said he was eager to make an impact in Cornwall: “I’m really grateful for the opportunity to join the Pirates - I’ve heard great things about the club. I’m looking forward to meeting the team and getting stuck in this season.”

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