The Origin of Calcutta Cup
The Calcutta Cup is a prestigious rugby union trophy that is contested annually between England and Scotland. The cup has a long and storied history, dating back to 1879 when it was first presented.
Calcutta Connection
The cup gets its name from the city of Calcutta in India, where the original trophy was made. The idea of creating a rugby trophy to be competed for between England and Scotland was the brainchild of two rugby enthusiasts, former pupils of Rugby School, who were serving with the British Army in India. They decided to commission a trophy made from melted-down Indian silver rupees with a value of 270 rupees. The cup was then presented to the Rugby Football Union in England to be played for between the two nations.
Historic Rivalry
Since its inception, the Calcutta Cup has become one of the oldest and most hotly contested rivalries in international rugby. The trophy symbolizes the fierce competition and sporting history between England and Scotland, two of the original rugby-playing nations.
Modern Significance
Today, the Calcutta Cup match is a highlight of the Six Nations Championship, with both teams vying for the honor of lifting the historic trophy. The match is a sell-out event, drawing large crowds and intense media attention every year.
- The Calcutta Cup is named after the city of Calcutta where the original trophy was made
- The trophy was made from Indian silver rupees and presented to the Rugby Football Union in 1879
- The England vs Scotland rivalry is one of the oldest and most famous in international rugby
- The Calcutta Cup match is a highlight of the Six Nations Championship
