The first edition of the India Rugby Premier League has made waves as a successful tournament in Mumbai, featuring six competing teams over two weeks. This inaugural event aims to reshape the landscape of sevens rugby in the country. Participating teams included the Bengaluru Bravehearts, Chennai Bulls, Delhi Redz, Hyderabad Heroes, Kalinga Black Tigers, and the Mumbai Dreamers, all showcasing renowned players from global rugby powerhouses like Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, South Africa, Samoa, Argentina, Kenya, Great Britain, and Spain.
Among the prominent athletes were double Olympic gold medallist Jerry Tuwai and fellow Fijians Waisea Nacuqu, Joji Nasova, Filipe Sauturaga, Terio Tamani, and Joseva Talacolo, who garnered attention for their skills and experience. Tuwai and Nacuqu represented the Mumbai Dreamers, while the Chennai Bulls emerged as champions with Sauturaga and Talacolo significantly contributing to their success.
Waisale Serevi, a former coach for India Rugby 7s, commended the organizers for their effort, highlighting the importance of international player participation in aiding local talent development. With World Rugby’s backing, the Rugby Premier League not only entertained but also offered an opportunity for local players to learn professional standards of training and teamwork.
This league is a landmark initiative, being the world’s first franchise-based rugby sevens league, encapsulating the spirit of competition in 34 matches over 15 days. The presence of internationally lauded coaches like Ben Gollings, as well as legends from New Zealand’s rugby scene, further emphasized the high stakes and potential growth prospects for rugby in India.
An element of hope arises from this initiative—it aims to excite a new generation of rugby players and fans while potentially paving the way for India’s national teams to aspire for Olympic qualification in future years. As the tournament drew attention and interest, it highlighted the journey of rugby in a cricket-dominated nation, hinting at a vibrant future for the sport.
As the league continues to develop, it stands as a testament to the power of sports to unite and inspire, promising a bright trajectory for rugby in India.
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