Oxford defeats Cambridge in 135th Varsity Match

In a centuries-old rivalry, Oxford and Cambridge Universities squared off over the weekend for an 8-board match at the Royal Automobile Club in central London. Oxford won this round 4½-3½, narrowing Cambridge’s overall lead to five match wins.

The two teams have been competing in a variety of sports, notably rowing, since the 19th century. The first chess match was in 1873 and this is now the 135th — the encounter was suspended during the World Wars.

Described as “one of the great traditions of British Chess”, the match was attended by various alumni guests including grandmasters. Luke McShane and Jon Speelman — both graduates of Oxford — provided a brief commentary on the games in progress for the chess24 broadcast.

See also:

• All the Oxford and Cambridge Universities games on chess24