Full-back Emma Sing said Gloucester-Hartpury are approaching the new campaign as any other despite a third title being up for grabs, particularly with so many players missing from pre-season training.

"To go back-to-back-to-back, no one's ever done that before, that's something that would be a good achievement," Sing said.

"It'll take us a few weeks to all get back together and because our defence has been so good the last few seasons, what's helped us win, and I think it's just getting back into that defensive mindset.

"Once we get into that mindset we'll carry on winning."

The 23-year-old was the top points scorer in the league last season and said with the campaign compressed into six months the main challenge is squad fitness.

"I think the team which ultimately has the fewest injuries is probably going to come out on top. If you miss six to eight weeks that's six games and you're not going to be able to recover from it potentially if it's one of your main players," Sing said.

"Strength and depth in the squad is going to be key and there will be a lot of to rotation to try and keep people fresh. That's ultimately going to help you towards the end of the season."