Boat Race 2016: When is it, what time does it start, where can I watch it and why is it on Sunday?

Everything you need to know about the 2016 Boat Race

The 2016 Boat Race takes place on Sunday 27 March (Getty Images)

The 162nd Boat Race will pit Oxford and Cambridge’s men and women against one another on the River Thames once again, with the Dark Blues looking to close the gap to their Light Blues rivals in the all-time rivalry.

Last year saw both the Women’s Boat Race and the Men’s Reserve Boat Race take place on the Tideway on the same day as the Men’s Boat Race for the first time in its history, and proved to be a Dark Blue day to remember as Oxford completed a clean sweep in all three races, as well as winning the Women’s Reserve Boat Race the day before.

This year, the Women’s Reserve Boat Race will take place on the same day as the other three events.

Cambridge still lead the overall Boat Race head-to-head 81-79, while they hold a larger advantage in the Women’s Boat Race with a 41-29 lead.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the Boat Race.

Oxford Men's crew celebrate their 2015 success (Getty Images)

When is it?

The 162nd Boat Race takes place on Sunday 27 March, switching from its usual Saturday afternoon slot last year to its new Easter Sunday standing in 2016.

Why is it on a Sunday this year?

The Boat Race changes time and date each year due to two factors – university timetables and tide times. Each year, the Boat Race must take place during the Easter holidays, giving organisers a period of time from Saturday 12 March to Sunday 17 April to set a date. The Men’s Boat Race must also start 30 minutes before high tide in Putney, meaning the race is likely to change time each year in order to meet the requirements.

What time do the races start?

15:10 - The Cancer Research UK Women's Boat Race

15:25 - Osiris-Blondie Race [Women’s Reserve]

15:40 - Isis-Goldie Race [Men’s Reserve]

16:10 - The Cancer Research UK Boat Race

What time does TV coverage start?

All four races will be covered live on BBC One, with coverage set to get underway at 14.30.