Date set for this year's Mobbs Memorial Match with Saints set to host
Saints and Bedford Blues have confirmed that the 2026 Mobbs Memorial Match will take place at Franklin's Gardens on Friday, November 27 (kick-off 7.30pm).
First played in 1921, the match commemorates Saints legend, World Rugby Hall of Fame inductee and First World War hero Edgar Mobbs.
The two clubs now contest the fixture annually, alternating hosting duties between Franklin’s Gardens and Goldington Road.
The match continues to support the charitable aims of the Mobbs Memorial Fund, which promotes the development of age-group rugby across the East Midlands through grants awarded to clubs within East Midlands Rugby Union.
Tickets will go on sale closer to the fixture date, but Saints’ season ticket holders will have the match included within their packages.
“We’re delighted to be welcoming Bedford Blues back to Franklin’s Gardens for this year’s Mobbs Memorial Match,” said Saints CEO Julia Chapman.
“The fixture is a really important date in the calendar for both clubs. While our partnership with Bedford continues to provide valuable development opportunities for players and coaches, there is always a competitive edge whenever the two teams meet on the field, and I’m sure supporters can look forward to another entertaining occasion in November.
“The Mobbs Memorial Match is one of the game’s most historic fixtures and provides an important opportunity to celebrate and remember the remarkable legacy of Edgar Mobbs.
"We’re proud to play our part in ensuring that legacy continues to be honoured year after year.
“Just as importantly, the fixture continues to support the fantastic work of the Mobbs Memorial Fund, which helps develop age-group rugby across the East Midlands.
“We’re delighted to be hosting the match this year and helping to raise funds for such a worthwhile cause.”
David Mobbs, Mobbs Memorial Fund Trustee, added: “The Mobbs Memorial Match is an historic fixture that has been played for more than a century, honouring not only Edgar Mobbs but also the many people who lost their lives during the First World War. It is remarkable that his story, values and sacrifice continue to resonate so strongly today.
“The connection between Bedford Blues and Northampton Saints reflects Edgar’s own ties to both clubs, making this a fitting occasion each year.
“Just as importantly, the match helps support the Mobbs Memorial Fund’s work in developing young rugby players across the East Midlands and encouraging them to stay involved in the game.”