Irish head to Dublin for Heineken Cup opener

Leinster will launch their defence of the Heineken Cup against London Irish in Dublin on 9 October.

The Irish side, who won a first European title last season, face a Friday night opener. Gloucester also begin their European campaign on the same evening, hosting Newport Gwent-Dragons, while the opening weekend's action also includes a trip to Northampton for double Heineken Cup winners Munster and Cardiff Blues hosting Harlequins.

The New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter will make his comeback from a ruptured Achilles tendon in a club game on Saturday. He will play for his Southbridge club against Hornby in Christchurch.