Dan Vickerman Cup introduced

The introduction of the Dan Vickerman Cup will give already storied rivalry added significance in Sydney on Saturday night.

Waratahs and Brumbies fans will get to watch their teams square off for the newly introduced trophy, which is named after the 63-test Wallaby who died last month in non-suspicious circumstances. 

The former South African-born lock played 20 Super Rugby matches for the Brumbies between 2001-2003, before heading north to the Waratahs and notching 58 caps between 2004-2011. 

A well respected and much loved player of both teams, the clubs opted to introduce the trophy to honour Vickerman as part of the annual grudge match. 
​New South Wales Rugby chief executive Andrew Hore said the trophy will add further weight to what is already expected to be a torrid battle between the teams. 

"Dan was one of those team mates who were admired by all that knew him and I know both sides will be wanting to take home the Dan Vickerman Cup. It is another way for the rugby community to recognise Dan's contribution to rugby," Hore said in a statement. 

"The clash between the Tahs and Brumbies is always a feature on the Super Rugby calendar and we are looking forward to hosting them on our turf in what we expect to be a very physical match up."

Brumbies chief executive Michael Thomson echoed Hore's sentiments ahead of the match.

"There have been several epic clashes between the clubs down the years and the rivalry has built into a healthy respect. Dan was an instrumental figure at both teams and the introduction of this trophy is a fine way to honour his memory," he said.

Despite having won just one of their first three games, the Brumbies top the Australian conference with six points, two clear of the fourth-placed Waratahs. 

 

Photo: CHRIS SKELTON/FAIRFAX NZ (Former Wallaby Dan Vickerman played for both the Brumbies and Waratahs in Super Rugby).