Flanker Fraser Gemmell will lead Oxford University in their opening game of the year against the RAF at Iffley Road tonight (7.15).

The New Zealander, who came on as a replacement in Oxford's 9-6 win over Cambridge University at Twickenham last month, takes charge in the absence of skipper Brett Robinson.

The Dark Blues include only four of the side that started against Cambridge, for the game, which is part of a new Universities and Services League.

As Oxford and Cambridge each play the RAF, Royal Navy and Army, who then meet in the Inter-Services Championship, the league gives some meaning to these encounters.

As a result of their Varsity Match victory, Oxford are currently top of the table!

Oxford Univ: W Rubie, S Stafford, D Marsh, J Dick, W Ellerby, S Fuchigami, D Taberner, K Tkachuk, E Brooks, M Street, J Boyle, P Trotter F Gemmell (capt) B Cosgrave, B Durham. Reps: D Sherwin, N Wood, L Ap Gwilym, T Ridgway, A Nishioka, M Forth, M Benjamin.