Leicester Tigers Ready to Roar in Champions Cup Clash Against Bordeaux Begles

Leicester Tigers are set to make an exciting entrance into the Champions Cup this weekend, as they prepare to face Bordeaux Begles at Stade Chaban-Delmas. The match holds special significance for 23-year-old lock Come Joussain, who will be making his first start for the Tigers since joining the club this summer. Partnering with Harry Wells in the second row, Joussain's inclusion in the starting lineup highlights the Tigers' commitment to integrating new talent into their squad. Head coach Michael Cheika has opted to rest several key players, including England lock George Martin, Wales back row Tommy Reffell, and South Africa fly-half Handre Pollard, following the intense autumn international series. However, the Tigers will still field a strong side, with prominent England representatives Jack van Poortvliet and Freddie Steward both earning spots in the starting XV. In addition to Joussain, Cheika has given centre Izaia Perese the opportunity to showcase his talents in European competition for the first time. The potential for Champions Cup debuts is also on the horizon, as Jed Holloway and Joseph Woodward are poised to enter the fray from the bench, further emphasizing Leicester's depth and talent pool. On the other side of the pitch, Bordeaux have named a formidable lineup that boasts experienced players such as French international backs Damian Penaud and Louis Bielle-Biarrey, along with Scotland lock Jonny Gray, who has been a standout performer since his return from a serious knee injury. The hosts are riding a wave of confidence, having won their last two matches, and will be eager to continue their winning streak against the Tigers, a team they have faced only once before. Despite a recent setback against Sale in the Premiership, Leicester Tigers hold a solid position in the league, currently sitting third. This Champions Cup opener presents the perfect opportunity for the Tigers to regain momentum and build on their promising start to the season. Cheika, who has a storied history with the competition, having led Leinster to a Champions Cup final victory over the Tigers in 2009, expressed the excitement surrounding this clash. "This competition brings great occasions, great days, and we're excited to take the challenge on this week," he stated, underscoring the importance and allure of European rugby. Fans can tune in for live commentary of the match on BBC Radio Leicester and BBC Sounds, as well as follow updates through live text commentary on the BBC Sport website and app. As Leicester Tigers gear up for their highly anticipated showdown with Bordeaux Begles, all eyes will be on Joussain and the rest of the team as they aim to make a strong statement in their European campaign.