The reigning champions entering the season were Saracens, who had claimed their third title after defeating Exeter Chiefs in the 2016 final.

Exeter Chiefs won their first title after defeating Wasps in the final at Twickenham after having finished second in the regular season table.

As usual, round 1 included the London Double Header at Twickenham, the thirteenth instance since its inception in 2004.

The top two sides from each group contested the series final at the Ricoh Arena on 6 August.

Man of the Match: Don Armand (Exeter Chiefs) Touch judges: Matthew Carley Luke Pearce Television match official: Rowan Kitt Note: Flags indicate national union as defined under World Rugby (WR) eligibility rules.