Saracens to begin Premiership title defence against Sale Sharks

Saracens will kick off the defence of their Aviva Premiership title at home to Sale Sharks.

Elsewhere on the opening weekend, newly-promoted Worcester Warriors will begin their 2015-16 campaign against Northampton Saints at Sixways Stadium on Friday, October 16.

Bath Rugby, beaten finalists last time out, open up with a trip to take on Exeter Chiefs, while Harlequins will meet Wasps.

Newcastle Falcons are at home to Gloucester Rugby, meanwhile, and Leicester Tigers face off against London Irish in the other opener.

The Premiership campaign begins a month later than usual this year due to the Rugby World Cup.