Some matches transcend the boundaries of sport, and Saturday’s Slater Cup showdown between Gloucester and Leicester Tigers is a prime example.
Taking place at Villa Park for the first time, the fixture marks a significant moment for Gloucester as they embrace hosting a ‘big game’ on their newly expanded academy grounds reaching into Birmingham. This highly anticipated meeting is the eighth edition of the Slater Cup.
The Slater Cup was established in 2022 in honor of Ed Slater, a former lock who captained both Gloucester and Leicester Tigers before being diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease (MND). Since then, the trophy is contested each time these two clubs meet in the Gallagher Premiership, with Leicester Tigers leading the rivalry with five victories to Gloucester’s two.
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Leicester dominated the early encounters, winning the first three Cups. Gloucester flanker Lewis Ludlow, a former teammate of Slater’s, shared the memorable pressure of breaking that streak, often feeling the push from Slater himself. “Anyone who knows Ed understands his dark, witty sense of humor,” Ludlow said. “Before our first win—it took us until the fourth match—he’d call me every time saying, ‘Time’s ticking mate, time’s ticking.’ I’d just say, ‘I know, I know, we just need to win one.’”
Gloucester finally claimed their maiden Slater Cup victory in March 2024. Since then, the trophy has swung between the two teams, with Leicester most recently reclaiming bragging rights after a 45-14 triumph at Welford Road in December.
As this weekend’s fixture approaches, the teams find themselves in contrasting positions in the Premiership table—Leicester sits third, aiming to maintain their strong form, while Gloucester lingers in eighth place, desperate for the crucial points.
Ludlow emphasized the dual nature of the game’s importance: “While the emotions run high with what this game represents, the Premiership points are vital for both sides. Ed would be the first to say that. Especially for us at Gloucester, those five points matter hugely.”
Beyond the competition, the match holds deep personal significance for Ludlow and the wider rugby community. “On a personal level, knowing Ed makes this match special. But it’s grown into something beyond just two great clubs honoring a remarkable man,” he said. “Playing at Villa Park, with a capacity of 40,000, raises not only vital awareness of MND but also significant funds.”
The 4Ed foundation, initially created to support Ed and his family, now extends far beyond. To date, it has awarded over £100,000 in grants to people living with MND across Gloucestershire and the country. Ludlow highlighted Ed’s continuing role in the foundation: “Ed personally decides where the money goes and who receives support.”
Demonstrating the commitment to the cause, £1 from every ticket sold for Saturday’s match will be donated to the 4Ed foundation. With over 20,000 tickets already snapped up, this match promises to be a significant step forward in the fight against MND and a moving tribute to Ed Slater’s legacy.