A change of format in national championship heralds the start of new Serbian domestic season, which kicks off this weekend.

Eight clubs will begin the quest to contest the Grand Final, split into two groups of four.

In Group A, which starts on Sunday, there is a big city derby to open proceedings with arch rivals Red Star facing  Partizan whilst current champions Dorćol host Radnički Niš.

Group B consists of Novi Beograd, Morava Gepardi Leskovac, Soko Vranje and Car Dušan Silni Paraćin.

In the first part of the season, each team will play the other home and away after which the bottom side in Group A will be relegated to Group B, with the winner of that group being promoted.

In the second part of the season, teams play their rivals in the group once, after which play-offs will determine the overall champion and team relegated to the second division.

SRLF general secretary Slobodan Manak cannot wait for the big kick off. “Last week we enjoyed a thrilling Super Cup match and the new format of the first division is designed to feature more matches among the top sides to continue to raise the standard,” he said. “It will also give an opportunity for the upcoming teams to gain more game experience and then challenge the leaders. The schedule is tough but we are confident that the quality of rugby will rise overall.”