Connacht v Bordeaux: What time, what channel and all you need to know

Where and when is it on?

The match takes place on Friday at the Sportsground in Galway with an 8.00pm time kick-off.

Where can I watch the game?

The game will be shown live on TNT Sports 2. The game is also being streamed live on discovery+.

What can I read and listen to in the build-up on Independent.ie?

There’s a new format in place for this season’s tournament and we’ve all the details on the changes for you.

Connacht will be kicking themselves after seeing what would have been a famous victory over Leinster slip through their fingers at the death last weekend and we’ve a report on that defeat below. In more positive news, Bundee Aki is set to be available for selection. Aki hasn’t played since Ireland's World Cup quarter-final defeat to New Zealand due to a hamstring injury, but the talismanic centre has now recovered.

On the latest episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery is joined by referee Wayne Barnes to look back on his eventful career.

The Englishman recently called time on his refereeing career after taking charge of the World Cup final, and Barnes gives a fascinating insight into what it's like officiating the biggest game in rugby.

The life of a top official, the TMO bunker and what it's like refereeing Johnny Sexton is all up for discussion too.

Listen and follow on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

What are the odds?

Connacht are favourites at 1/2 with Bordeaux 17/10 and the draw is 16/1.