Cambridge women arrive in flying form

A scrummaging masterclass paved the way for Cambridge’s 24-0 win over Oxford in the Women’s Varsity match 12 months ago and the Light Blues head to Twickenham on top of their British Universities and Colleges division, Midlands 1A.

They have an unblemished record from seven matches, whereas Oxford are rooted to the bottom of Premier South following six straight defeats. However, Cambridge captain, scrum-half Kate Marks, is wary of complacency.

“Oxford are playing in the Premier League and it is hard to scale the results between the two,” said Marks, a try-scorer last year. “But it’s been nice to have a taste of victory this term.”

Centre Abby D’cruz will lead Oxford, who are hoping for a repeat of their shock win in 2016.

“There’s a huge amount of talent within this team,” she said. “The belief we have in our process has created an incredible atmosphere within the group. The team has put in a huge amount of work and we are ready for Twickenham.”

Partnering D’cruz in Oxford’s midfield is Sophie Trott, poised for a fourth appearance in this fixture on what is the 30th anniversary of the first women’s Varsity match.