By Sallie
January 28 2013

The British & Irish Legends are delighted to announce that their eagerly awaited match against the French Legends will be kicked off – literally- by the equally legendary chef, Michel Roux Jnr.  With his dual nationality and divided loyalties he is the ideal person to start this much anticipated Anglo-French match at The Twickenham Stoop on Friday Feb 22nd. Michel will be kicking off at 7.45pm.

Roux Joins Rugby Legends!

The British and Irish Legends will be captained by former England Skipper Martin Corry. The team will also feature England’s most-capped player, Jason Leonard, World Cup winners Josh Lewsey and Ben Cohen, former Irish international Shane Byrne and other huge names, including; Jamie Noon, Colin Charvis, Doddie Weir and Craig Chalmers.

The French team will be led by the mighty flanker, Serge Betsen, who achieved a massive 63 international caps during his career as well as 251 appearances at club level. To combat the power and experience of the British and Irish side, he’ll be calling on some of France’s most celebrated Rugby stars, including; former French mainstay Christian Califano and other heroes of the French game, like Christian Labit, Sylvain Marconnet,  Franck Comba, Patrice Lagisquet, and  Francis Ntamak,

These huge names aren’t just competing for pride; they’re also putting their reputations on the line for three incredible charities – for British & Irish Legends - Wooden Spoon, the Children’s Charity of Rugby.  The French team nominated charities are The Serge Betsen Academy and Provale, the equivalent of the RPA in France.

Michel Roux Jnr, born in the UK of French parents, is a huge rugby fan, in particular Harlequins and of course French Rugby.  Michel’s pitch debut will be witnessed on the night by rugby loving friend and fellow MasterChef: The Professionals judge, Gregg Wallace.

Michel comments “I’m very much looking forward to lending my support to these illustrious players – on both teams!   I have seen the team lists and there are some heavy hitters on both sides so it is no small undertaking for the boys to pull their boots on again! It is wonderful to see the generosity of spirit amongst these rugby legends and it will be a fantastic event in support of some truly worthwhile charities. “

Just Retirement is the title sponsor for this unique match. They are one of the UK's leading retirement businesses, based in Reigate, Surrey, so will be bringing a large contingent of staff and business partners to the match to roar on the teams from the stands.

Tickets will start at £10, concessions £5, and are now on sale from www.quins.co.uk/tickets  or call 0208 410 6000/ 0871 527 1315. Post match musical entertainment will be provided by top band Sway. You will also be able to pay at the gate for what promises to be another fun fuelled and memorable evening at The Stoop!

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