The Varsity Match will break with long-held tradition and take place on a Thursday this year, it was confirmed yesterday.

Historically, Oxford University have played Cambridge at Twickenham on the first Tuesday in December, but that will change in 2007.

They will clash on Thursday, December 6 with a later kick-off than the traditional 2pm slot also planned.

The decision was confirmed as Lehman Brothers, the global investment bank, announced it was extending its sponsorship of the Varsity Match until 2010.

It was decided to move the match to Thursday following research conducted by the London Business School in conjunction with the RFU and the two universities.

The conclusion was that a Thursday date would better suit students, alumni, schools and corporate groups.

RFU business operations director Paul Vaughan said: "The Lehman Brothers Varsity match is proving as popular as ever and the decision to move the fixture to a Thursday should only add to the occasion."

Oxford director of rugby Steve Hill said: "I think it is right that the universities and sponsors should look at the research.

"Maybe 15 years ago it was easier to get a day off work to watch the Varsity Match.

"The universities have got to respond to changing times.

"Thursday may be a day that's easier for people to take time off and the later kick-off time will help.

"We have to respond to customers' requirements.

"The positive thing is that the crowd went back up above 40,000 again last year and this should only help it grow."

Lehman Brothers' sponsorship includes the women's match.

John Phizackerley, chief administrative officer, Europe, of Lehman Brothers, said: "Not only do we have the opportunity to work with two of the most prestigious universities in the world, but we also have the pleasure of being involved with one of the UK's great traditional sporting events.

"Sponsoring the Varsity Matches for the next four years will allow us to develop relationships with students and distinguished alumni from the corporate and public sectors, on a great day out."

Vaughan added: "We are delighted to have Lehman Brothers on board for the next four years.

"The two universities, the RFU and Lehman Brothers made 2006 a tremendous success.

"There was renewed energy in the event and we saw a fantastic increase in attendance.

"The extension of the contract also follows the Varsity tradition of a long-term sponsor."

RESULT

OBB Colts League: Bicester 21 (tries J McNeany 2, M Simpson; cons M Flegg 2, D Spencer), Marlow 12.