Hertford College Rugby Club, from the University of Oxford, will be travelling to Malta on Saturday to play two matches against Overseas and Stompers.

The first match will be played on Monday and the second on Friday, September 26, both at Marsa. Kick-off time is 19.00.

“The tour will further promote the sport of rugby and forge relationships between Oxford University and the people of the Maltese islands. And, of course, the players and coaches,” Hertford said in a statement.

Part of the tour will be an outreach programme, including visits from the Hertford College team to charitable organisations such as the Inspire Foundation for whom they are going to repaint the playground and clean out the pond, as well as entertain some of the kids.

John Collis, chairman of Hertford College Rugby Club, said: “We are thrilled to be able to bring Hertford College to Malta, especially as (former prime minister) Dom Mintoff was at Hertford during his time at Oxford University. Huge gratitude is due to the Armed Forces of Malta for allowing Hertford to train on their assault course.”

Stephen Delia, Hertford co-ordinator who is of Maltese heritage, added: “We were delighted with the way Malta rugby welcomed our tour, following our successful trip to Mongolia last year.

“Hertford College greeted my initial suggestion to tour Malta with great enthusiasm and I’m sure we will all have a productive and fun time whilst conducting some charitable tasks and exploring the islands.

“We are hoping to tour Abu Dhabi next year.”