Clive Woodward will lead the Lions next year

The British and Irish touring party leave for New Zealand on 24 May, which was intended as the date for the Premiership and Wildcard finals.

However, after talks with the Lions, Premier Rugby have agreed to bring the finale forward to 14 May.

"We are delighted to have reached a negotiated solution," said Lions chief executive John Feehan.

"We acknowledge that the schedule of our tour dates has had an important bearing on club rugby and has caused Premier Rugby a number of problems."

The Lions have now agreed to consult with Premier Rugby over future tours.

Opening fixtures

"We have had a series of successful and positive meetings with Premier Rugby and have reached a greater understanding of each others needs," Feehan said.

"This will include further discussions with Premier Rugby regarding the length and timings of future Lions tours with a view to minimising the impact to club rugby."

The opening day of the 2004/05 Zurich Premiership season will see champions Wasps take on London rivals Saracens as part of a double header at Twickenham.

London Irish will also meet Harlequins at England headquarters, while newly-promoted Worcester begin with a home match against Newcastle.

Bath, who finished top of the table but lost to Wasps in the play-off final, have a tricky opening visit to Northampton.