Match Centre: Investec Champions Cup: Northampton Saints 38-8 Castres

Northampton Saints 38-8 Castres, cinch Stadium @ Franklin's Gardens

Northampton Saints launched their Investec Champions Cup campaign with an emphatic 36-10 bonus-point victory over Castres at Franklin's Gardens.

The Premiership champions showcased a commanding performance despite challenging weather conditions caused by Storm Darragh.

The Saints began the match with high intensity, as captain Fraser Dingwall powered over the line to open the scoring. Castres responded with a penalty from Louis le Brun, briefly narrowing the gap.

However, Northampton quickly regained control as Temo Mayanavanua charged through the Castres defense for a brilliant solo try.

As the storm intensified, both teams adapted their game plans, relying heavily on territorial kicking. The first half closed with Northampton holding a slim lead, but the promise of more attacking rugby loomed as the weather calmed after the break.

Northampton resumed with renewed vigor. A quick reaction from Tommy Freeman off a penalty saw him deliver a wide pass to Juarno Augustus, who scored in the corner.

The Saints secured their bonus point when Curtis Langdon added a fourth try, followed by Augustus doubling his tally with a strong drive over the line.

Castres managed a late consolation try, with Pierre Colonna taking a quick penalty and crossing the line. However, Northampton had the final say as teenager Henry Pollock capped a memorable first European start with a determined solo try.

The Saints now prepare for a challenging away clash against the Bulls in South Africa on Saturday, December 14, while Castres will host Munster the night before.

Team line up:

Northampton: Ramm; Freeman, Litchfield, Dingwall (capt), Sleightholme; Smith, Mitchell; Iyogun, Langdon, Millar-Mills, Mayanavanua, Lockett, Scott-Young, Pollock, Augustus.

Reserves: Wright, West, Green, Munga, Coles, Mapu, McParland, Hutchinson.

Castres: Chabouni, Raisuqe, Seguret, Dupont, Hulleu; Le Brun, Arata (capt), Guerois-Galisson, Zarantonello, Azar, Ducat, Nakarawa, Peysson, Ardron, Tukino

Reserves: Colonna, De Benedittis, Corato, Babillot, Papalii, Fernandez, Botitu, Baget.