South Africa’s heavyweights are jumping straight into the deep end as the Investec Champions Cup returns this weekend.
The action will mostly play out in France, but Loftus is set to host one of the most eagerly-anticipated matches of the round.
The Stormers kick things off on Friday night in Bayonne, where they’ll walk into a hostile Stade Jean Dauger armed with unbeaten Vodacom URC momentum and a perfect six-from-six start to their season.
MORE: Bayonne boosted for Stormers showdown
But Bayonne promise an aerial onslaught: they topped last season’s Challenge Cup for kick-retention and restart pressure, meaning the Capetonians will need to be clinical in the air and razor-sharp around the rucks.
The Stormers’ own attacking identity remains intact. Last season they posted the fastest ruck speed in the competition and the most attacking kicks per match.
WATCH: When Bulls, Bordeaux put on a show
On Saturday, Loftus becomes a battlefield where the Vodacom Bulls host reigning champions Bordeaux Bègles.
The French arrive with a ruthless breakdown record, leading last year’s tournament in turnovers and jackals, while the Bulls counter with a formidable set-piece, including five lineout steals in last season’s run and one of Europe’s best goal-kicking returns.
After a dip in form, Johan Ackermann’s men need a big response and beating the title holders would be a statement.
ALSO: Toulouse heavyweights back for Sharks
Sunday brings the toughest assignment of all: the Sharks against European juggernaut Toulouse at a sold-out Stade Ernest Wallon.
Toulouse top the French Top 14 and are on a four-match winning streak; the Sharks have battled for rhythm in the URC, so they go into this clash as heavy underdogs.
But the Durban-based side boasted a 100% scrum success, and lead the competition with their carry metres and maul conversion.
AFRICA PICKS: Investec Champions Cup betting preview
Investec Champions Cup fixtures (Round 1, SA times)
Friday, 5 December
Bayonne vs Stormers, 10pm
Sale Sharks vs Glasgow Warriors, 10pm
Saturday, 6 December
Saracens vs Clermont, 3pm
Bulls vs Bordeaux Begles, 5:15pm
La Rochelle vs Leicester Tigers, 7:30pm
Leinster vs Harlequins, 7:30pm
Scarlets vs Bristol Bears, 10pm
Bath vs Munster, 10pm
Sunday, 7 December
Pau vs Northampton Saints, 3pm
Toulouse vs Sharks, 5:15pm
Gloucester vs Castres, 5:15pm
Edinburgh vs Toulon, 7:30pm
Photo: Lee Warren/Gallo Images
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