Oxford University should not lack experience in the Varsity Match as they have only five new players in their squad.

With 12 Blues returning from last year’s victorious line-up and several moving up through the ranks, captain Dan Rosen is hopeful of another strong campaign.

The five newcomers are back-row forwards John Carter, Michael Rickner, Jamie Gibson and Makoto Tosa, plus Australian scrum half Nick Haydon,.

Rosen said: “We’ve got 12 returning Blues which is a lot. That can only be a good thing.

“Everyone has come back in really good shape. We are just gelling together as a team.

“It is very early days and although we have always got the Varsity Match at the back of our minds, it is a long way away.”

Former England coach Brian Ashton, who did much to develop an attacking style last season, will continue to take regular sessions.

Rosen said: “He will come down to do as many sessions as possible.

“He gives us something that no-one else can.”

Wayne Thompson, a prop in last year’s team, has taken on the role of scrum coach while continuing to play for Bristol.l A VERY strong Blues squad overcame a predominantly Chinnor 2nd XV 70-0 at Thame Road on Tuesday night.

The Blues used 35 players on the night, scoring 12 tries.

Will Browne (3), Nick Haydon (2), Tim Catling (2), Alex Cheesman, Tosa Makoto, Nic Van Zyl, Ali Walker and Stan McKeen scored tries.

Ross Swanson (New) and Jules Allfrey (Green Templeton) kicked five conversions between them.