History of the Webb Ellis Cup

The Rugby World Cup champions will lift the Webb Ellis trophy at the Stade de France on October 28

Made by Carrington and Co. of London in 1906 – replica of trophy crafted in 1740 by noted Huguenot silversmith Paul de Lamerie

Discovered in vault in London jewellers Garrard’s in 1987 and chosen for use as Rugby World Cup

Named after William Webb Ellis, credited as creator of rugby football

Silver cup, gilded in gold, weighs 4.5kg. Cast scroll handles topped with heads of nymph and satyr

New Zealand and South Africa have both hoisted trophy three times, ahead of two-time winners Australia – England are only northern hemisphere team to claim title

Statue at Rugby School in England depicts pupil William Webb Ellis catching and running with ball during football match in 1823 – incident credited as birth of modern game of rugby

Source: World Rugby
Picture: Getty Images © GRAPHIC NEWS