WORCESTER Warriors will begin their Premiership Rugby Cup campaign with a home clash against Sale Sharks.

Alan Solomons' men will take on Sharks at Sixways on Friday, October 26 before visiting Leicester Tigers and Saracens in Pool Two on Saturday, November 3 and Sunday, November 11 respectively.

The competition, which replaces the Anglo-Welsh Cup, then has a break until the New Year when Warriors have their 'Derby Day' clash with Wasps, who are in Pool Three, at Sixways on Friday, February 1 (7.45pm).

The three pool winners and the best runner-up will move into the semi-finals as they bid to win more than half a million pounds in prize money.

Premiership Rugby chief executive Mark McCafferty said: “The cup has been a highly successful competition in recent years in helping develop the best new Premiership and England players, in front of big crowds and TV audiences.

“The pathway for young players is now clear linking the under 18s league, the Premiership Rugby Shield and now the Premiership Rugby Cup into one strong route towards Gallagher Premiership Rugby, European competitions and Test matches."

Warriors 2018-19 Premiership Rugby Cup fixtures.

Friday, October 26 - Warriors vs Sale Sharks (7.45pm).

Saturday, November 3 - Leicester Tigers vs Warriors (3pm).

Sunday, November 11 - Saracens vs Warriors (3pm).

Friday 1 February - Warriors vs Wasps (7.45pm).