The Sharks are in director of rugby Philippe Saint-Andre's homeland to take part in the Challenge Vaquerin and this evening begin the tournament with a clash against Perpignan in St Affrique.
For Saint-Andre and head coach Kingsley Jones it will be the first chance to run the rule over the players, the majority of whom have been bunkered down in training since mid-June.
In particular, it will give them the chance to see their new recruits in competitive action with the likes of Matthew Tait, Luke Abraham and David Doherty all eager to impress.
However, fellow new signing Dwayne Peel will have to wait before he makes his Sale bow as he continues his recovery from shoulder surgery.
Following tonight's game, Sale lock horns with Montpellier at Camares on Saturday before returning home for Edgeley Park clashes against Leeds Carnegie (Friday, August 22) and Lyon (Thursday, August 28).
Looking ahead to tonight's clash, Saint-Andre said: "The Challenge Vaquerin will be very tough for us but will help the players in their preparation for the new season."
Meanwhile, Sky TV cameras will be at Edgeley Park for Sale's clash with Worcester on Friday, November 14 and the festive showdown with Bath at the Rec on Saturday, December 20 will also be screened.
How do you think Sale will do? Have your say.
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