Former Sale Shark Charlie Hodgson broke another personal record when he passed the 2000-points mark in the Aviva Premiership yesterday. Hodgson sent over four conversions and three penalties as Saracens beat London Irish 40-3 in part two of the Twickenham Double Header. Ironically, Charlie passed the 1000-points tally against the same opponents, for Sale Sharks at the Madejski Stadium in March 2006.

Saracens are Sale Sharks' opponents in the Aviva Premiership opener at Salford City Stadium next Saturday (4.30 p.m.). For tickets at this historic occasion, ring 08444 994 994 or buy online using the Sale Sharks ticketing website.

Sarries' comprehensive win followed a dramatic opener which saw champions Harlequins complete the biggest comeback in Aviva Premiership history when fly half Nick Evans kicked a 45-metre penalty to secure a 42-40 win against London Wasps. Just before the hour, the Wasps had led 40-13.

The other three games were played along the M.5 corridor. Whilst Sale Sharks were enduring a torrid time at Exeter, Gloucester tried to stage a last-gasp comeback of their own against Northampton Saints, but eventually lost 24-19. The Saints were in control for the majority of the game, with George Pisi grabbing a brace of tries.

Further North, eight penalties from fly half Olly Barkley's left boot were enough for Bath to beat Worcester Warriors, the last coming in the 80th minute. It seemed that his opposite number Andy Goode had won the day a minute earlier. Final score 23-24.

London Welsh open up against Leicester Tigers on Sunday afternoon at Sale Sharks' happy European hunting ground, the Kassam Stadium in Oxford.

Next weekend's big game: Sale Sharks v. Saracens at Salford City Stadium on Saturday 8th September at 4.30pm. Q&A with non-playing squad, entertainment and drinks offers will also be available from 2.30pm at the stadium.

Sale Sharks fans couldn't wish for a better first home league fixture. Don't miss out, book your tickets now through the Official Sale Sharks ticket website. If you would prefer to book your tickets over the telephone then you have two options:

1. Email your name, phone number, a good time to call (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) and the tickets you would like to purchase to info@salesharks.com, then a member of staff from the Sale Sharks ticket office will call you back or;

2. If you would like to book directly, simply call our Ticket Line number - 08444 994 994.

Keep up to date with the latest Sale Sharks news by liking the Official Sale Sharks Facebook Page and following @SaleSharksRugby on Twitter.