The game has been moved from its usual Saturday slot to accommodate a request to show the match live on Sky Sports. It will be part of a double-header being broadcast that day.

Head coach Paul Grayson said: “This is a great start to our season – a game at home in front of our wonderful supporters, against one of the most exciting sides in the Premiership. Having played in front of 11 sell-out crowds last season, we are looking forward to more of the same in 2006/07. Nothing beats running out to a packed and noisy Franklin’s Gardens.”

Tickets are now on sale for this game and the remaining tickets for the Franklin’s Gardens season will go on sale on Tuesday, August 1. However, supporters who are associate members can book their tickets for any game now as part of their exclusive priority booking rights. All information on tickets and associate memberships, which includes entry into the draw for international tickets at Twickenham and a free ticket offer for the home game against GUINNESS PREMIERSHIP champions Sale Sharks in March, can be obtained from Saints’ friendly ticket office staff on 01604 581000.

The team will then travel to Sale on Saturday, September 9, for their second Sky game in a row. Kick off will be at 2pm.

Saints will play Bath at home on Saturday, September 16, and Worcester, in the Anglo Welsh Cup, on Saturday, September 30. Both games will kick off at 1.30pm to alleviate traffic congestion in the St James area, as the Cobblers will be kicking off at 3pm on these days.

Commercial director Allan Robson said: “We are delighted that we have been able to come to an agreement with the Cobblers, as both clubs take its responsibility to the local people very seriously. The staggered kick-off times should alleviate most of the congestion around the St James area.

“There was an option to move our games to a Friday night but our supporters do prefer to watch their rugby on a Saturday. Friday night kick-offs tend to mean some of our supporters, who come from a very wide area, would not be able to get to Franklin’s Gardens on time after work. We hope this is a compromise that will suit the town, both clubs and both sets of supporters.”