Yesterday was the big grudge match of the year, Cornwall v Rest of the World.

We had a Cornish Captain in Dick Rundle and a New Zealander for RoW in Dennis Brown. This was billed as Cornwall & Devon v New Zealand, just like when the All Blacks played rugby down at Redruth in 1973.

The day started calm and peaceful just like the weather and ended breezy and stormy, just like the weather.

There was plenty of banter in the Clubhouse before going out to play. The “Oggie” was brought out on show, so both teams could see what they were playing for.

The Captains went out first and New Zealand came back victorious, a big blow to Dick and the Cornish contingent. Next in were Rob Cook and Kai Dingle and they managed to bring home victory against father and son the Robinsons. Rest of the World then started to pull away a little until the Ahearn boys managed a half and Bradley and Dingle took a Cornish win to steady the Cornish ship. Then there was another sea of RoW wins with Dick staring down the barrel of defeat.

The final result was RoW 8 Cornwall 4. Another victory to RoW to go on the “Oggie”.

There was plenty and banter flying around in the Clubhouse after the matches and it was good to see so many people enjoying themselves.

Next year Cornwall need to dig deep and reverse the tide of RoW wins.

Chris Smyth

Member Services Manager

17.08.2025