The Investec Champions Cup has returned for another exciting season, featuring top rugby union teams from Europe and South Africa competing for the prestigious title of continental champions.
The defending champions, Bordeaux Begles, claimed their historic first trophy by defeating Northampton Saints 28-20 in a thrilling final last May. They begin their title defense with a challenging away match against the Bulls in Pretoria this Saturday, while Northampton will also start their campaign across the Channel against Pau.
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The journey to the final in Bilbao next spring begins now, with the pool stage divided into four groups of six teams. The top four from each group will progress to the knockout round, where the top two in each pool secure home advantage, while the third- and fourth-placed teams will be on the road.
French heavyweights Toulouse will kick off their campaign at home against the Sharks, while Leinster hosts Harlequins at the Aviva Stadium. Both teams are considered favorites by bookies to win the tournament, alongside Bordeaux, Bath, and La Rochelle, who are also expected to perform well.
Here’s what you need to know:
How to Watch
In the UK, fans can catch all the Investec Champions Cup matches live on Premier Sports. Each game will be shown on Premier Sports 1, Premier Sports 2, or Premier Sports Rugby, with live streaming also available on the Premier Sports website.
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Round One Schedule of the Investec Champions Cup
Friday, December 5
Sale Sharks vs Glasgow Warriors – 8 PM, Premier Sports 2
Bayonne vs Stormers – 8 PM, Premier Sports Rugby
Saturday, December 6
Saracens vs Clermont Auvergne – 1 PM, Premier Sports 2
Bulls vs Bordeaux Begles – 3:15 PM, Premier Sports 2
La Rochelle vs Leicester Tigers – 5:30 PM, Premier Sports 2
Leinster vs Harlequins – 5:30 PM, Premier Sports 1
Scarlets vs Bristol Bears – 8 PM, Premier Sports 2
Bath vs Munster – 8 PM, Premier Sports 1
Sunday, December 7
Pau vs Northampton Saints – 1 PM, Premier Sports 2
Toulouse vs Sharks – 3:15 PM, Premier Sports 1
Gloucester vs Castres – 3:15 PM, Premier Sports 2
Edinburgh vs Toulon – 5:30 PM, Premier Sports 1