Quins on top in bake off battle

Aviva Premiership champions prove winning mentality with victory over London Irish in cake-making challenge.

Ahead of this weekend’s clash between Harlequins and London Irish, players from both teams went head to head at Twickenham Stoop to prove their skills off the pitch and in the kitchen.

With Great British Bake Off contestant Stuart Marston-Smith acting as mentor and judge, Harlequins stars Ollie Kohn, Rob Buchanan and Mark Lambert edged the plucky London Irish trio of Jonathan Joseph, Topsy Ojo and Matt Garvey in a highly competitive contest.

Arranged by Premiership Rugby sponsors Aviva, it was clear from kick off that the Quins players held the upper hand after admitting that members of the squad’s front row have their own baking club. But despite their rivals’ confidence and a lack of culinary know-how, Ojo and Joseph dazzled onlookers with their speed and composure throwing the result in doubt.

At the final whistle however, Harlequins’ superior handling and finishing skills proved the difference between the two sides with Rob Buchanan picking up the man of the match award and best cake of the day.

Champion baker Buchanan said: “I had great fun today and am really pleased to have come away with the win. It was a bit of a surprise as I haven’t baked much before, so maybe it’s a hidden talent! We’re looking forward to Sunday now and to taking them on on the pitch in the Aviva Premiership.”

Louisa Cheetham, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Aviva, commented: “With the Great British Bake Off finale gripping the nation over the past few weeks, the players were keen to get involved. London Irish put in a great performance but in the end it wasn’t enough, especially with the Harlequins players perfecting their technique in the weeks beforehand at their baking club. It was plain to see that both clubs were desperate to win and is a taste of things to come for this weekend’s Aviva Premiership match.”