“We’ll take a lot of confidence into Champions Cup,” says Pivac

The new European Rugby Champions Cup and Challenge Cup season was launched in style today at the Twickenham Stoop ahead of the competition’s opening round next weekend.

Coaches and captains of the Guinness PRO12 and Aviva Premiership clubs, including Scarlets’ Wayne Pivac and Ken Owens, who have qualified for the 2015/16 tournaments.

Looking ahead to the campaign’s start next week Scarlets Head Coach Wayne Pivac said that his side are expecting another big challenge.

“We looked at last year’s pool and called it pool of death but they’re all strong pools. This season is going to be another big challenge for us.

“Racing have some big names to add to the mix. I think it’s fantastic to have players like Dan Carter in the competition. It’s fantastic for players to come up against the best players in the world but it’s also great for fans to see these plays in their own back yard potentially.

“We look forward to the challenges ahead and it’s going to be a great occasion.

“Northampton are going to have a big pack no matter what they put out. We look forward to that challenge and a big effort will be required by the boys.

“They’re all strong sides, not forgetting that Glasgow are the reigning champions in the PRO12.”

Scarlets get their campaign underway at Franklin’s Gardens on Saturday 14^thNovember, kick-off 19:45.

Pivac went on to say: “First game we’ll be going out there trying to get a result and to get the momentum going for the home game against Racing 92 a week later.

“We’re happy with where we’re sitting in the Pro12. It’s very early days but success breeds success and the confidence is growing with each victory.

“Hopefully we’ll take a lot of that confidence into this competition.”

Tickets for Scarlets v Racing 92 are on sale now, call 0871 871 8088 or buy online at tickets.scarlets.co.uk