Dai Young insists his side are relishing the challenge ahead, after they were drawn alongside Gallagher Premiership winners, Harlequins, and double winners, Toulouse, in the Heineken Champions Cup pool stage.

French outfit, Toulouse, lifted their fifth European title last season, while also claiming a record 21st Top 14 trophy a few weeks later, and the clash against the Blue and Blacks will no doubt rekindle memories of the inaugural Heineken Cup final in 1996.

Meanwhile, Harlequins stunned Exeter Chiefs in a thrilling Premiership final at Twickenham last month, with Louis Lynagh inspiring the London side to a 40-38 win.

The director of rugby says his side are eager to challenge themselves against the best and is expecting some thrilling affairs to be on the cards.

“Every team wants to be in this competition, and that’s because every team want to judge themselves against the best sides across Europe,” said the former Cardiff, Wales and Lions prop.

“We’re drawn in a group alongside the English champions and a Toulouse side who claimed the double last year.

“So we’re up against the best in England and the best in France and we couldn’t judge ourselves against two better teams.

“We know it’s a massive challenge, but it’s a challenge we’ll relish and we’re certainly excited for it. These games can’t come around quick enough.

“On top of that, both sides play a fantastic, entertaining brand of rugby, which we also pride ourselves on, so hopefully these games should be a real treat for the Cardiff Arms Park faithful. I’m sure we’ll see some brilliant games.”