What a mouthwatering tournament we have in store this year. Not only do we have the cream of northern hemisphere talent on show but in Munster we have a club that are worthy champions. On top of that, we also have some of the finest talent from Down Under beneath the equator for our delectation.

Tell me - who is not positively salivating at the prospect of watching Perpignan with Dan Carter! Or Ricky Elsom, former league superstar Mark Gasnier or of course the likes of Danny Cipriani and co.

This Heineken Cup has huge worldwide interest and deservedly so.

POOL A

Sale
Munster
Montauban
Clermont Auvergne

The standouts here are Munster and Clermont - but so much for the French decides upon whether their Top 14 competition is considered more important. Sale won't score the points necessary and Montauban are also-rans.

Tip: Back Munster @ Evens w/ Totesport to top group

POOL B

Wasps
Castres
Leinster
Edinburgh

Wasps are struggling, and Edinburgh have the capacity to shock as proved last year under the shrewd tutelage of Andy Robinson. Castres are second from bottom in their domestic competition and this actually looks on current form a weak group.

Leinster have the skills but have not had the power in recent years. Well, CJ Van Der Linde and Ricky Elsom do some pretty hard nosed bolstering of the pack which is why they are a serious threat and should win this group.

Tip: Back Leinster @ 11/10 to top group