The Varsity Match has a new sponsor. The Japanese investment bank Nomura has replaced Lehman Brothers as title sponsor of the annual rugby match between Cambridge and Oxford.

Nomura, who have taken over Lehman’s European and Asia Pacific investment banking operations, have agreed to sponsor the event for the next four years. They will also sponsor the women’s Varsity Match, to be held in March next year at Cambridge.
Although Nomura have declined to reveal the size of funds provided, it is thought to be well into six figures.

Whilst there was no doubt that the Twickenham match would go ahead, the sponsorship will ensure some degree of improved financial stability for Cambridge rugby.

Ian Minto, general manager of Cambridge’s rugby club (CURUFC), says, “We at Cambridge are really looking forward to the development of our association with Nomura and believe it will bring tremendous benefits to all concerned”.

Blues captain Jon Dawson adds: “I’m absolutely delighted with the news and very grateful to Nomura for their sponsorship. I think that there are many synergies between Nomura and the Varsity Match.”

Nomura have also expressed a desire to be involved with the event long-term: “We’re delighted to be building on our existing relationships with two of the world’s top universities and look forward to continuing this in the future.”

The 127th Varsity Match will be held on Thursday December 11, kicking off at 2pm. The Dark Blues have experienced defeat in the last three encounters, leaving Cambridge with an overall lead of 59 victories to 52.

Tickets are currently available for a discounted rate of £5 through CURUFC.

Martin McQuade