Ulster face champions Toulouse in European opener

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Ulster were beaten 48-24 by Toulouse at Kingspan Stadium in January

Ulster will start their Investec Champions Cup campaign with a trip to France to take on holders Toulouse on 8 December.

The game at Stade Ernest Wallon (15:15 GMT) is the first of four pool matches for the Irish province.

Ulster face French opposition again six days later with an encounter against Bordeaux Begles at Kingspan Stadium (15:15).

Richie Murphy's side finish against two English teams, starting with Leinster Tigers at Welford Road on 11 January (20:00).

It's back to Belfast for the final fixture against Exeter Chiefs on 17 January with another 20:00 kick-off.

Six-time winners Toulouse defeated Leinster in a thrilling final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in May.

They played Ulster at the pool stage in January and came out with a 48-24 away win.

Next year's final will be played at the Principality Stadium on 24 May.