The Investec Champions Cup returns, bringing together Europe’s and South Africa’s elite rugby union teams to vie for the prestigious title of continental champions.
Bordeaux Begles, the current titleholders, secured their first major trophy by defeating the Northampton Saints 28-20 in a thrilling final last May. They kick off their title defense with a challenging journey to Pretoria to face the Bulls on Saturday. Meanwhile, Northampton embarks on their campaign with a trip across the Channel to meet Pau.
The journey to Bilbao, the venue for next spring’s final, begins now. The pool stage features four groups of six teams, with the top four from each group advancing to the last 16. The leading two teams in each pool will enjoy home advantage, while the third and fourth will play away.
French powerhouses Toulouse, hosting the Sharks in the opening round, and Leinster, welcoming Harlequins to the Aviva Stadium, are the bookmakers’ joint favorites. Bordeaux, Bath, and La Rochelle are also expected to perform strongly.
Viewing Information
Fans in the UK can catch every Investec Champions Cup match live on Premier Sports. Coverage is available on Premier Sports 1, Premier Sports 2, or Premier Sports Rugby, with live streaming accessible via the Premier Sports website.
Round One Schedule for the Investec Champions Cup
Friday, December 5
Sale Sharks vs. Glasgow Warriors – 8pm, Premier Sports 2
Bayonne vs. Stormers – 8pm, Premier Sports Rugby
Saturday, December 6
Saracens vs. Clermont Auvergne – 1pm, Premier Sports 2
Bulls vs. Bordeaux Begles – 3.15pm, Premier Sports 2
La Rochelle vs. Leicester Tigers – 5.30pm, Premier Sports 2
Leinster vs. Harlequins – 5.30pm, Premier Sports 1
Scarlets vs. Bristol Bears – 8pm, Premier Sports 2
Bath vs. Munster – 8pm, Premier Sports 1
Sunday, December 7
Pau vs. Northampton Saints – 1pm, Premier Sports 2
Toulouse vs. Sharks – 3.15pm, Premier Sports 1
Gloucester vs. Castres – 3.15pm, Premier Sports 2
Edinburgh vs. Toulon – 5.30pm, Premier Sports 1
