Three Oxford University rugby players are taking on a Worcester Warriors trio this weekend at the Mazda Blenheim Triathlon.

Alex Nicholls, Ian Kench and Tom Gregory have entered the team relay, with former England captain Pat Sanderson, Miles Benjamin and Kai Horstmann their rivals in the grounds of Blenheim Palace.

Nicholls, 29, an Australian back-row forward who played for second team, the Greyhounds, will start with the 750m swim.

Then, lock Kench, 22, part of Oxford’s winning Varsity Match team in 2008, takes on the 20km bike ride.

Gregory, 24, a centre with two Blues, will complete the event with the 5km run.

Oxford University director of rugby Steve Hill said: “We asked for people who would like to take part and they were the ones who came forward.

“All three are pretty competitive and will give it a good go. It will be a tough afternoon.

“At this time of year, it is quite good to be doing some cross training. I think they are looking forward to it.”

The Oxford players are raising money for the Dan James Trust, which funds spinal research.

Benjamin will swim for Worcester, with Horstmann cycling and Sanderson running.

Blenheim will also host the annual triathlon Varsity Match between Oxford and Cambridge.

Across the weekend, there will be 5,500 competitors ranging from elite athletes to first timers and 15,000 spectators are expected to attend.