UCT are rugby world champions

UCT became the first World University Rugby Cup champions when they swept aside Trinity College Dublin in the final on 21 September.

The Ikey Tigers' try‑line could not be breached as they claimed a 17‑0 victory at Iffley Road in Oxford. Lock James Kilroe scored one try while the ref also awarded a penalty try to the Capetonians. Full‑back Paul Cohen's boot provided the rest of the points, as he kicked a penalty and two conversions.

Oxford University Rugby Football Club hosted the inaugural tournament which featured eight teams from across the world. UCT's victory march included a 24‑12 win over the University of British Columbia in the semi‑final, a 47‑5 defeat of Oxford Greyhounds and a 28‑3 win over the Blues, an ensemble of New Zealand universities. UCT also beat top Japanese rugby university Waseda 31‑14 in their final pool match.

This trophy is UCTRFC director of rugby Kevin Musikanth's second major honour since taking the reins in mid‑2013.

Musikanth paid special tribute to his loose trio Guy Alexander (captain), Michael Botha and Jason Klassens, as well as Kilroe, Cohen and fly half Rob Anderson.

In beating a “very good” Trinity College team in the “tough” final, as Musikanth said, UCT ensured it emerged from the tournament unbeaten.

UCT Rugby Football Club last toured the UK in 2003 when they played three matches against Oxford and Cambridge universities.

Story by Yusuf Omar. Image supplied.