The Varsity fixture between Oxford and Cambridge Universities was first contested in 1872 and quickly became one of the most celebrated on the annual rugby calendar.

1909 Varsity Match Ball

In 1909 a young engineering student, from Balliol College, by the name of Ronnie Poulton was selected for Oxford. The young centre dominated the match, scoring a record 5 tries and helping Oxford to their largest ever victory, 35-3.

Five years later in 1914 Poulton would captain England to a Grand Slam. The following year he was tragically killed by sniper fire above a trench south of Ypres.

Lt. Ronald William Poulton Palmer- Royal Berkshire Regiment

Taken from the ‘Rugby Moments’ gallery – World Rugby Museum.

To learn more about Ronnie Poulton visit the Lest We Forget special exhibition – now showing.

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