WORCESTER Warriors have been drawn alongside holders Gloucester in the pool stages of the European Challenge Cup.

Gloucester sealed their first major silverware since 2011 with a memorable victory over Edinburgh in the final in May.

Dean Ryan’s men will also face French outfit La Rochelle, who are preparing for their third season in Top 14, and Italian Pro12 club Zebre.

Warriors will play each of the teams on a home and away basis, with the first round scheduled for weekend of November 12,13,14 and 15.

Warriors booked their place in the European competition after securing an instant return to the Aviva Premiership with victory over Bristol in the Greene King IPA Championship play-off final last month.

Cup draw:

Pool One: Connacht, Brive, Newcastle Falcons, Enisei-Stm.

Pool Two: Sale Sharks, Newport Gwent Dragons, Castres, Pau.

Pool Three: Montpellier, Harlequins, Cardiff Blues, Calvisano.

Pool Four: La Rochelle, Gloucester, Zebre, Worcester Warriors.

Pool Five: Edinburgh, London Irish, Grenoble, Agen.