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Champions Cup Draw Pits English Clubs in Challenging Groups

English rugby clubs are preparing for demanding European campaigns following the recent Champions Cup draw. Northampton Saints and Bath Rugby face a particularly difficult pool, according to BBC Sport.

7/24/2026, 4:31:20 AM

The upcoming Champions Cup rugby season promises intense competition, with several English clubs drawn into formidable groups. Northampton Saints and Bath Rugby, in particular, will need to be at their best as they navigate a challenging pool that includes formidable opponents from South Africa and France. According to BBC Sport, the Saints and Bath have been placed in the same group as the Pretoria-based Bulls, a team known for their physical prowess and strong home advantage. Adding to the group's difficulty is Montpellier, the French Top 14 runners-up, who will undoubedly provide a stern test for both English sides. Leicester Tigers face a formidable challenge of their own, having been drawn against Leinster. The Irish provincial side has consistently been a dominant force in European rugby, making this a highly anticipated encounter for fans of both clubs. Bristol Bears will also contend with French opposition in Bordeaux-Begles, setting up another intriguing Anglo-French clash. Meanwhile, two other prominent English clubs, Saracens and Exeter Chiefs, found themselves slated for competition within the same group. This domestic rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity to their European fixtures, ensuring compelling matches as they both vie for progression in the tournament. The draw sets the stage for a compelling tournament that will test the mettle of Europe's top rugby clubs. Fans can anticipate thrilling encounters and fierce competition as teams battle for supremacy in their respective pools.

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