PLAYERS of tambourine tennis are hoping to rattle the competition this weekend when they compete in the “Champions League” of the sport.

Seven afficionados of the niche racquet game are jetting off to Italy to compete in the tennis-like tournament – played with a tambourine shaped bat.

It is the first time an Oxford team will play at the TamBurello European Cup since it was set up 18 months ago.

Women’s captain Jasmine Bosenick, from Rose Hill, said: “This is the equivalent of the Champions League for TamBurello.

“It is a dynamic and fast paced sport, with a big court, lots of diving, and the relays can be amazing.

“I have been playing since I was about 16 and it’s my seventh time competing in the competition – but the first time for the Oxford team.

“It is an exciting opportunity.”

Ms Bosenick, 24, and partner Jason Littlefield, 26, set up the Oxford club about 18 months ago.

TamBurello is a court game invented in the northern provinces of Italy during the 16th century.

Three players on each team use ‘tambourines’ to hit a ball into the opposing side of the court.

The ball is allowed to bounce once before it is returned and there is no net.

From today to Sunday both men’s and ladies’ teams from Oxford will be the sole representatives from the UK battling it out in a number of European rounds.

The European Cup of TamBurello is a competition for the best teams in Europe including England, Italy, France, Spain, Hungary, Czech Republic, Germany and San Marino.

Ms Bosenick said: “At the moment we are aiming to get through the group stages which means we have to finish fourth out of five – just not last.

“That is definitely achievable and then we are hoping for the quarter finals as a minimum.

“It is the same for the men’s team – it is a slightly more difficult contest for them.”

Men’s captain Mr Littlefield added: “It is obviously a different sport that not many people have seen or heard of in the UK.

“It is really exciting – probably closest to tennis, but a lot easier and a team game.”

It is hoped the competition will help raise the profile of the sport in Oxford and bring in new members.

Oxford TamBurello is looking to expand its team and develop a junior squad to get more children involved.