Leicester Tigers begin the defence of their Aviva Premiership title against Worcester Warriors at Welford Road this Sunday.
And Cockerill says that with Dean Ryan taking over at Worcester and his former teammate Dean Richards returning to the Aviva Premiership with Newcastle Falcons, the league will be more competitive than ever.
“The league is stronger than ever,” said Tigers director of rugby Cockerill at the Aviva Premiership launch event at Twickenham Stadium on Thursday.
“Dean Ryan at Worcester Warriors, we know what he can do and Newcastle with Deano (Dean Richards) and John Wells, I know they will produce a team that’s hard to play against.
“Across the board it is going to be more difficult than it ever has been. Any team can beat any team on the day.
“The teams have recruited well and the coaching across the board is very strong.
“It will be more competitive than ever.”
Tickets for Tigers’ season opener against Worcester are available now. Book online by clicking here, call 0844 856 1880 or visit the Welford Road ticket office.
