A very historic rugby fixture
The Calcutta Cup is an iconic sporting fixture steeped in history; it was first awarded to the winning team in 1879. The Cup took its shape after Calcutta Rugby Football Club disbanded in 1877, when they melted the club’s silver Rupees, and presented it to the winning team between England v Scotland. Overall, going into the 2025 Guinness Men's Six Nations, England have held this prestigious title 82 times whilst Scotland have claimed it on 48 occasions, with 16 draws – a firm lead in victory numbers for the Roses! However, with victories for Scotland on the past four Calcutta Cup matches, Scotland hope to extend their back-to-back victories and close the gap between the two sides, but England will be desperate to end their winning streak.
Who are the stand-out players for the 2025 fixture?
England's recent match in the 2025 tournament against France was certainly a spectacle, giving fans a reason to roar and remain on the edge of their seats. With the final whistle sounding to a 26-25 win, England's decisive try scored by Elliot Daly in the final minute and Fin Smith's conversion removed their six-point trail, securing a bonus-point victory. Fin Smith earned player of the match and proved his ability to step up at high-pressure moments - he'll be a threat to Scotland if his kicking is as accurate as it was against France.
Another England standout and one to watch is Ben Earl, not just in this match but in the tournament. As a key forward, his stats consisted of 73 carries, 24 defenders beaten and 63 tackles in the 2024 Guinness Men's Six Nations - bringing flare and momentum to England's back row.
For the Scottish side, Duhan van der Merwe has been pivotal to their success over the years, and is one of England's biggest threats. In the 2024 Guinness Men's Six Nations, he carried 355m, beating 15 defenders and in that year's Calcutta Cup edition, beat seven players to score that impressive try. He's a proactive player who works to get the ball, not just wait his turn, proving to be a dangerous opponent.
Joining him as a solid player in the squad is Finn Russell at number 10, with his ability to read the game and made decisive moves - he's sure to make himself known on the pitch.
What to expect from the Calcutta Cup at Twickenham Stadium in 2025
A game which has historically been a massive fixture for both teams has even more provenance. With Scotland’s recent back-to-back victories, England look to punish the visiting side at the home of rugby. Scotland have won four of their past six international Tests highlighting their potential, whereas England have only won two against France and Japan - but all is to play for, with England showing a spark under new captain Maro Itoje and the benefit of the home crowd's support.
Our last few official hospitality experiences remain for England v Scotland at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on 22 February 2025. Keith Prowse are proud to be offering an experience like no other, with an exceptional dining experience and the chance for you to get closer to the action for the Guinness Six Nations!
