The Cobblers will play host to last season’s finalists, Cardiff City, in the first round of this year’s renamed Capital One Cup.
The Welsh club were beaten by Liverpool on penalties at Wembley in February and will travel to Sixfields for what should be the first game of the new season, in the week commencing August 11.
Cobblers boss Aidy Boothroyd believes the game represents an exciting start to the forthcoming campaign.
“I think because the first round is before the league season begins it is a very good opportunity to test ourselves against a very good side,” he said.
“It is very important to us and we want to try and get through to the next round.
“We want to have a run in the cup this year and for a club like ours a good run in the cup is really important.
“Cardiff had a superb run in this competition last season, so they will know all about the excitement and opportunity that the Capital One Cup can bring. It is an exciting game to start the season with.”