Munster face tough Heineken Cup opener

Heineken Cup holders Munster have been handed a tough opening to the defence of their title.

They begin on Sunday October 22 away to 2001 and 2002 winners Leicester Tigers.

Also drawn in Pool 4 are Cardiff Blues and Bourgoin.

Celtic League champions Ulster have been drawn in Pool 5 along with Toulouse, London Irish and Llanelli Scarlets.

Their first match is away to Llanelli on Friday, October 27.

Last year’s semi-finalists Leinster have been given possibly the easiest draw of the three Irish sides involved.

They have been drawn in Pool 2 along with Edinburgh Gunners, French side Agen and Gloucester Tigers.

Michael Cheika’s side begin their campaign at home to Gloucester on Saturday October 21.