May 1, 2008

England line-up for Barbarians challenge

An exciting line-up of England stars will take on the Barbarians at Twickenham Stadium in the Gartmore Challenge on Sunday June 1 at 3.00pm.

The match takes place the day before England head to New Zealand for their summer tour and the Saxons travel to Canada for the Barclays Churchill Cup.

RFU Elite Rugby Director and team manager for England's New Zealand tour Rob Andrew said: “All of the players going on tours apart from the Guinness Premiership finalists will be available for selection against the Barbarians which is an exciting prospect.

“The match will be a massive occasion and will give the players a chance to perform against world-class opposition before they set off on their summer tours.”

The star studded showdown is set to feature some big names with the Barbarians inviting Mark Regan, Fourie du Preez, Gareth Thomas, Stephen Larkham, Ollie le Roux, Sebastien Chabal, Glen Jackson and Regan King.

The match will once again be supported by one of the UKs leading investment management specialists, Gartmore, who last sponsored the historic Barbarians v South Africa match at Twickenham in December 2007.

Jeff Meyer, Gartmore’s President & CEO said: "December’s Gartmore Challenge between the Barbarians and South Africa will go down as one of the most exhilarating matches in Barbarian history. I have no doubt that game will be etched in the memories of both the players and the fans who witnessed the action that day at ‘The Home of England Rugby’.

“Gartmore was proud to be part of that special occasion and is now pleased to continue its association with this unique team when they play England on June 1.

“Our key values are closely aligned - both brands stand for heritage, trust and loyalty. In addition both organisations have an absolute focus on striving to deliver top performance and aim to have teams that represent the best of the best in their respective fields.”

The showdown between England and the Barbarians will be the Barbarian Football Club’s 750th fixture since it was founded in 1890.

For up-to-date event information, check out: www.rfu.com/barbarians

Tickets are on sale now from £25 (juniors from just £10) via Ticketmaster: 0870 902 0000 / www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Ends