Leicester Tigers have reached the final of the Anglo-Welsh tournament for the first time since 2008 and now face neighbours Northampton Saints on neutral territory at Worcester’s Sixways Stadium.
“It’s a local derby so it is a big day anyway, but it’s also a cup final and it should be a great occasion for both clubs and the supporters,” said Tigers director of rugby Cockerill.
“There is a big rivalry but it also a healthy rivalry because there is a lot of respect for the work of both clubs.
"We know each other well, there is a lot of history there, and we are local rivals. I think it is good for the game to have that kind of rivalry between two big clubs.
“I’m sure it will be full-blooded and fully committed and should be a great spectacle.”
Tigers have reached the final with four successive wins, including away games against Harlequins and then Bath in the semi-final, despite suffering a 31-3 defeat at the Scarlets in the opening round of the pool fixtures.
“I’m delighted with the attitude of all the boys,” added Cockerill. “A run in the cup is massive for the spirit of the squad because everybody feels they have contributed to the season and that is important.
“It has been a hard season for all sorts of reasons but the boys have kept on working and now they have an opportunity to gain some reward for that in a cup final.”
