We take a in-depth look at Europe's second tier rugby competition and ask, is the new set-up 'far-seeing and revolutionary' or simply Frankenstein?
Connacht open their European season against Zebre in the European Challenge Cup in Dexcom Park, Galway, on Saturday.
READ MORE: Munster worry about the four international game test window putting huge demands on players' bodiesPerpignan sit 11th of 14 in France with just three wins and Lyon sit 13th with just two wins to date. But then qualification from the initial phase that would be jumping from one tough competition to another tougher competition as the restructured competition goes 'hybrid'.
2 - The clubs are divided into three pools of six who begin by playing four pool stage rounds and seeking just four clubs to advance to the knockouts. 5 - Toyota Cheetahs are based in Bloemfontein and are not one of the current South African URC franchises but have a specific EPCR invite. Last season Cheetahs made the Challenge Cup's last 16. This season they play their opening game against Perpignan in the 5,000 capacity Netherlands Rugby Board's NCRA Stadium in Amsterdam.
European Champions Cup Leinster Rugby Munster Rugby Ulster Rugby
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Connacht's Irish internationals may not feature in opening European gamesMack Hansen, Bundee Aki, Finlay Bealham and Cian Prendergast may not feature until the Christmas derby games.
Read more »
Connacht's Pete Wilkins Excited for Upcoming Challenge Against BullsConnacht Rugby's Pete Wilkins is looking forward to their upcoming United Rugby Championship match against the Bulls, despite both teams missing some international players due to the Autumn Nations Series. Despite the absences, Wilkins sees it as an opportunity for a challenging and exciting return to action after a win over the Dragons.
Read more »
Connacht to rest triumvirate of Irish stars for Champions Cup openerThe province's Ireland players are coming off four weeks gruelling test rugby and will be given a much needed rest this weekend.
Read more »
The Winter Arc: Another Day, Another TikTok ChallengeThe Winter Arc: Another Day, Another TikTok Challenge The Winter Arc: Another Day, Another TikTok Challenge
Read more »
Dominant forces and first-time finalists - Provincial decider time in LGFA club championshipsThe Connacht, Leinster and Munster finals are down for decision this weekend.
Read more »