The future of the Varsity rugby match is safe, as a new sponsor, the Japanese bank Nomura, stepped in this week to back the historic game between Oxford and Cambridge.
Peter Bridges, chairman of Oxford’s rugby team, expressed his delight, saying, “Oxford University rugby football club (OURFC) is delighted that Nomura has agreed to sponsor both the men’s and women’s Varsity Matches in a four year sponsorship agreement.”
OURFC have been searching for a new sponsor since the bankrupt financiers, Lehman Brothers, collapsed in September, leaving a significant hole in OURFC’s finances.
Back row Blues player, Chris Davies said, “This is great news. We are very grateful.” Avid rugby fans are also relieved. One student said, “Varsity match is a massive tradition, it’s central to our sporting calendar.”
Bridges urged students to attend, “so we have a bumper crowd for our new sponsors.”
Matt Smith, a second year medic, said, “I am eagerly anticipating the upcoming game, and am glad that it’s taking place.”
The match is to be held on 11 December.
