Leicester Tigers begin their National Academy League programme with a home game against Gloucester Rugby at Welford Road on Saturday. Kick-off is at noon and admission is free to all supporters.

Tigers won each of their fixtures in the league’s inaugural year in 2012/13 and lost just once last season, against Gloucester.
 
Academy manager Neil McCarthy said: “The Under-18 League is a good opportunity for the best young players in the country to play against each other. It is clear in the last couple of seasons that this league is the highest standard of rugby in this age group in the country.
 
“We lost just one game last season but the lessons to take from it were around closing out games or holding on to bonus points, which is something new for players at this level and important for them moving forward.
 
“We’ve got a talented group of players in the squad and we look forward to seeing them in this competition.
 
“We’re very grateful that the club is able to stage the game at Welford Road because that provides young players with a great opportunity to see what it is all about at a big stadium. We hope there is plenty of support for the team there.”
 
Supporters will be accommodated in the Holland & Barrett Stand and terrace.