Robshaw: Poses with the Premiership trophy

The Harlequins captain was in the Olympic Stadium on the night that David Rudisha broke his own world record to win gold in the 800 metres.

He also witnessed Usain Bolt complete a unique sprint 'double double' by retaining his 200m title, having already successfully defended his 100m crown.

Rudisha's performance in leading from the front struck a chord with Robshaw, given Harlequins won the title in exactly that fashion last season.

But it was Bolt's ability to repeat his success which showsed Robshaw and Harlequins what can be achieved in the campaign ahead.

"It was an incredible 12 months but it is about not resting on your laurels, about going to improve on what we have achieved," Robshaw said.

"We have been looking at the Olympics and what cycling did, trying to earn a small percentage here and there.

"I watched David Rudisha lead from the front in the 800m. That couldn't fail to leave a mark on me.

"I also watched Usain Bolt win the 200m for the second successive Olympics, despite all the pressure on him. Good teams can win a title, great teams back it up."

Harlequins open their campaign against Wasps, who only secured their Premiership status on the last day of a troubled season in May.

At that stage Wasps were weeks away from going into administration but the club is close to being sold to a consortium led by former player Ken Moss and things are looking bright.

Dai Young has recruited well with James Haskell and Tom Palmer returning and there are great expectations for the South African number eight Ashley Johnson.

Wales fly-half Stephen Jones and Italy centre Andrea Masi will bring some international experience while much is expected of Joe Launchbury, Christian Wade and Elliot Daly.

"Things are very promising at Wasps at the moment and we've brought in some high quality signings who are only going to help us improve," scrum-half Joe Simpson said.

Harlequins against Wasps will be followed at Twickenham by Saracens against London Irish, a club who have also undergone a transformation over the summer.

Elsewhere on the opening day of the season, Danny Cipriani will make his return to the Premiership when Sale Sharks tackle Exeter at Sandy Park.

Gloucester, now coached by Nigel Davies, host Northampton at Kingsholm and Bath travel to Worcester.

Sunday's game pitches new-boys London Welsh, who are without the injured Gavin Henson, in at the deep end against Leicester.