Six Nations: What is the Centenary Quaich trophy?

As a Six Nations rugby fan, you’ll be familiar with the Centenary Quaich. But do you know when it was first awarded? The origins of the trophy’s name? Or which team has produced the most Centenary Quaich wins?

Whether you’re an avid Irish fan or a steadfast Scottish supporter, we’ve outlined the Centenary Quaich history and results below. Here’s everything you need to know about this Six Nations rivalry trophy.

Which teams compete for the Centenary Quaich?

Ireland and Scotland compete annually for the Centenary Quaich. Each year, these two teams meet for their Six Nations match and the winner of this game is awarded the Centenary Quaich trophy. 

When was the Centenary Quaich first awarded?

The Centenary Quaich was first awarded during the 1989 Five Nations Championship. It was lifted by Scotland at Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh. It was here that Scotland beat Ireland 37-21 and secured the first ever Centenary Quaich trophy.

Although the first Centenary Quaich match was held in 1989, the rivalry between Scotland and Ireland dates back to the late 19th century. In fact, these two sides met for their first game in 1877, six years before the first Home Nations Championship.

Why is it called the Centenary Quaich?

The name ‘Centenary Quaich’ comes from Scottish Gaelic. The word ‘quaich’ derives from the Gaelic word ‘cuach’, which means cup. A ‘quaich’ is a traditional drinking vessel that somewhat resembles a trophy, with a shallow design that features two handles. 

The ‘centenary’ part refers to the anniversary of the International Rugby Football Board – now World Rugby. It was founded in 1887 and the Centenary Quaich was introduced in 1989 to mark the 100th anniversary.

Which team has claimed the most Centenary Quaich wins?

Ireland have won the most Centenary Quaich rugby matches. They first lifted this trophy in 2000, during the first Six Nations tournament. Since then, Ireland have dominated the Championship, winning the trophy 20 times between 2000 and 2023. 

In contrast, Scotland’s most successful period occurred during the Five Nations. In fact, Scotland claimed or retained every Centenary Quaich during the Five Nations era. In the current format, Scotland secured this piece of silverware in 2001, 2010, 2013 and 2017.

Centenary Quaich results table 

Here are the results of every Centenary Quaich match to date: