MELROSE is set to host its very own varsity match.

And the clash will feature two of Scotland's oldest universities.

The University of Edinburgh and the University of St Andrews will meet ahead of the final of this year's Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose Sevens.

A crowd of around 12,000 will enjoy the match between the university sevens teams.

Melrose president Trevor Jackson told the Border Telegraph: “The prospect of having two of Scotland’s ancient universities add to the exceptional atmosphere at the 2017 Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose Sevens is truly exciting.

"This is a must-see match for students, alumni and rugby enthusiasts alike.

"In this Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology we are particularly delighted to welcome both the University of Edinburgh and the University of St Andrews to the birthplace of the sevens, and to celebrate the legacy of Ned Haig.”

Students from Edinburgh and St Andrews recently contested The Royal Bank of Scotland Scottish Varsity Match at the BT Murrayfield Stadium in front of over10,000 fans.

But this will be the first time the historic seats of learning have clashed at the shorter game.

David Ross, director of rugby at St Andrews, said: “To showcase our rugby programme in front of a huge crowd is something we are used to with The Scottish Varsity Match at BT Murrayfield but to get the opportunity to play at the home of 7s in such a prestigious and world class event a special honour for our club.

"We would like to thanks Melrose RFC for recognising the student game and the quality rugby programmes that both St Andrews and Edinburgh have in place.

"The players are very excited to once again challenge themselves in the oldest university rivalry in the world and promise to put on some stunning 7s to entertain the crowd.”

Tickets for the 2017 Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose Sevens on April 8 are available from www.melrose7s.com or directly from Melrose Rugby Club.

David Adamson, Edinburgh University's head of men’s rugby, is looking forward to his team playing in front of a packed Greenyards.

"He said: "To have two of the world’s oldest universities playing at the home of 7s, the Aberdeen Asset Management Melrose 7s seems like the perfect partnership, for Melrose RFC and our two universities to be part of.

"We thank Melrose for the opportunity for both sets of students to showcase their talents to an audience who may not realise the skill and tenacity that currently vie their trade in the university game.”