Connacht face long-haul trip to Russia after Challenge Cup draw

Connacht are facing a massive away trip to the centre of Russia after today’s European Challenge Cup pool stage draw.

Connacht are joined in Pool 1 by Newcastle Falcons, French club Brive and Russian newcomers Enisei-STM.

European Challenge Cup holders Gloucester have been drawn with local rivals Worcester Warriors in the group stages of the 2015-16 competition.

The draw at European Professional Club Rugby’s headquarters in Switzerland pitted Gloucester, who beat Edinburgh in last season’s final, newly-promoted Aviva Premiership side Worcester, French side La Rochelle and Italian outfit Zebre in Pool 4.

Sale Sharks and Newport Gwent Dragons have two French clubs, Castres and Pau, for company in Pool 2 while Pool 3 has a formidable look about it.

Jake White’s Montpellier side will be joined by Harlequins, Cardiff Blues and Italian outfit Calvisano.

Edinburgh, London Irish and French duo Grenoble and Agen are in Pool 5.