Challenge Cup record

Worcester's 2008 defeat is their best showing in the Challenge Cup - they fell to a 24-16 loss to fellow English side Bath Rugby at Kingsholm Stadium. Two seasons prior, they reached the semi-finals where they were beaten by Gloucester Rugby.

They also made a last-four appearance the campaign that followed their defeat to Bath, exiting at the hands of Bourgoin. More recently, they reached the quarter-finals of the 2018/19 competition, where they were edged out 18-16 by Harlequins.

Last season

Worcester endured a frustrating Challenge Cup campaign last time out, losing 24-20 to Section Paloise in the opening round following a last-gasp Antonie Erbani try. The Gallagher Premiership side suffered late heartbreak once again in Round 2, as George North’s 73rd minute score helped Ospreys to a dramatic 38-29 victory in an eight-try thriller at Sixways Stadium, a result which would end Worcester hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

Head coach

Former Wales international Jonathan Thomas joined Worcester as head coach ahead of last season, having spent the final two years of his playing career captaining the club. The former back-row forward signed from Ospreys, where he made 188 appearances between 2003 and 2013.

Key players

Worcester made several additions to their squad ahead of this season, with winger Duhan van der Merwe, who featured for the British and Irish Lions this summer, joining from Edinburgh Rugby, and experienced tighthead prop Christian Judge signing from Bath. Centre Ollie Lawrence made his England debut last year, while lock Ted Hill is an integral part of the Warriors’ pack.

Pool fixtures

After being drawn into Pool A, Worcester will go up against Newcastle Falcons, Biarritz Olympique, RC Toulon and Zebre Rugby in this season’s EPCR Challenge Cup.

2008 Challenge Cup runners-up Worcester Warriors are the next side in line for an overview as part of our deep dive into the teams featuring in season’s competition.