Originally held between the four United Kingdom countries England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, France joined in 1910 and Italy joined in 2000.

The ultimate prize of any nation is to complete their campaigns undefeated and achieve ‘The Grand Slam’

The 1921 Championship was the seventh series of the Five Nations and England secured a Grand Slam. This was a dominant period for the Red Rose – inspired by the legendary Wavell Wakefield – they went on to win back-to-back grand slams in 1923 and 1924.

In 1948, it was the turn of Ireland who clinched their first Grand Slam. This fine period of Irish rugby continued and they were champions and Triple Crown winners again in 1949. In 1951, Ireland were once more crowned Five Nations champions.

Wales secured back-to-back Grand Slams in 1950 and 1952. Inspired by the 19 year old Lewis Jones and the Olympic sprinter Ken Jones who were prominent in both campaigns.

In 1925 Scotland’s Grand Slam dream was a distant reality, yet with their lightning quick backs of George MacPherson, Jonny Wallace and Ian Smith they surprised everyone and secured the Championship with a hard fought 13 points to 11 victory over England.

Celebrate the heritage of international rugby football with our vintage collection, including ruggers, polos and t-shirts. Each item in our Six Nations Rugby Shirt collection is designed with inspiration drawn from the worlds oldest Rugby Championship. To see the whole range visit www.ellisrugby.com