2012 CFL schedule announced

TORONTO - Rider Nation won't have to wait long to see former slotback Andy Fantuz in his new colours.

Fantuz agreed to terms with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Friday, the same day the CFL unveiled its 2012 schedule. Fantuz's first game with his new team will come June 29 when Hamilton hosts Saskatchewan, the squad he spent six seasons with before joining the Ticats.

Corey Chamblin, Hamilton's former defensive co-ordinator, will also make his first regular-season appearance as Saskatchewan's head coach.

Fantuz will make his return to Regina on July 28 when the Riders host the Ticats.

The Saskatchewan-Hamilton contest will be the first of two to kick off the 2012 season. Later that night, the B.C. Lions will begin their Grey Cup title defence at home against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in a rematch of last year's CFL title game at B.C. Place.

It will also mark the B.C. head-coaching debut of Mike Benevides, the Lions' former defensive co-ordinator who was promoted to the top job when Wally Buono stepped down to concentrate on being the club's full-time GM.

(The Canadian Press)