A deep dive into the iconic rugby clash between England and Scotland for the Calcutta Cup.
Topics covered
The origins of the Calcutta Cup
The Calcutta Cup is not just a trophy; it represents one of the oldest and most celebrated rivalries in rugby. The tradition began on Christmas Day in 1872, when a match was played between 20 Englishmen and 20 Scotsmen in Calcutta, British India.
This historic game laid the foundation for what would become an annual contest between England and Scotland.
The founding of the Calcutta Rugby Football Club
In January 1873, a month after the initial match, the Calcutta Rugby Football Club was established by expatriates, former Rugby School students, and soldiers from the Royal East Kent Regiment.
The club joined the Rugby Football Union (RFU) in 1874, marking the beginning of a formalized rugby culture in the region. However, by 1878, the club faced declining membership and decided to withdraw its funds, totaling 270 Indian rupees. These coins were melted down to create the Calcutta Cup trophy, symbolizing a lasting contribution to the sport of rugby.
The significance of the trophy
The original intention of the Calcutta Club was for the trophy to serve as a rugby equivalent to the FA Cup. However, the RFU decided to establish an annual match between England and Scotland, with the winning team receiving the cup. The trophy itself is a work of art, crafted by Indian artisans, featuring handles shaped like king cobras and an elephant atop the lid. This unique design reflects the cultural heritage of its origins.
Historical matchups and records
The first official Calcutta Cup match took place in Edinburgh in 1879, ending in a draw. The following year, England claimed their first victory in Manchester. Since then, the two teams have faced each other 131 times, with England leading the series with 71 wins to Scotland’s 44, and 16 matches ending in a draw. However, recent years have seen Scotland gaining the upper hand, winning four consecutive matches leading up to the latest clash.
The current landscape of the rivalry
As the Six Nations Championship unfolds, the upcoming match at Twickenham is poised to be a pivotal moment for both teams. England, having recently emerged as surprise contenders, must secure a win after their loss to Ireland. Meanwhile, Scotland aims to extend their winning streak and solidify their position in the tournament. The Calcutta Cup is more than just a trophy; it embodies the spirit of competition and the rich history of rugby between these two nations.
