Munster drawn with Harlequins in Europe
Munster will put their proud unbeaten home run of 24 Heineken Cup wins at Thomond Park on the line when they entertain the newly crowned European Challenge Cup winners, Harlequins.
Also in their pool are Neath-Swansea Ospreys and Castres.
New Leinster coach Declan Kidney, who took Munster to two Heineken Cup finals, will have an away trip to face the Italian champions Benetton Treviso to contemplate for his first European assignment.
Leinster have also drawn Bath and Bourgoin.
Ulster will face old foes Stade Francais and Cardiff Blues, as well as Gloucester.
Heineken Cup holders Wasps have been drawn in the same pool as Leicester Tigers – the first time two English sides have faced each other in the group stages – for this year’s premier European competition.
Wasps begin their defence with a tough-looking home tie against last season’s beaten semi-finalists Biarritz at the end of October.
Calvisano make up the numbers in the group
Northampton have to tackle last season’s beaten finalists Toulouse, Llanelli Scarlets and Glasgow.
Newcastle Falcons open their campaign at Newport Gwent Dragons before taking on Perpignan and Edinburgh.
