The Investec Champions Cup kicks off this weekend, marking the first time since 2018 that the competition begins in October. Irish provinces Leinster, Munster, and Connacht are set to compete in Europe's top-tier rugby, while Ulster will feature in the Challenge Cup.
Leinster, last season's beaten finalists, are considered a significant threat to Bordeaux-Begles' title ambitions. However, they enter the campaign with a reportedly weaker squad following key departures over the summer, including James Lowe and Rieko Ioane. Despite this, they boast an impressive record of 31 consecutive pool stage wins in the Champions Cup.
Munster, two-time winners, will aim to improve on last season's disappointing exit into the Challenge Cup. Their draw includes an away trip to the reigning champions, and they will be without Jack Crowley for at least the initial pool fixtures.
Connacht faces a challenging pool draw, with eight of the past 11 Champions Cup winners among their opponents. They have won one of their opening three league fixtures, with scrum issues and discipline noted as concerns.
Ulster will play in the Challenge Cup for a second consecutive season after reaching the final last year. They are paired with familiar URC teams Zebre and Dragons, alongside Top 14 sides Bayonne and Perpignan, and will be looking to return to the knock-out stages.