Fiji’s rugby superstar, Jerry Tuwai, has taken on the role of vice-captain for the Mumbai Dreamers in the inaugural Rugby Premier League sevens competition in India. This franchise-based league, which has received approval from World Rugby, kicked off with its first match on June 1, 2025, at the Mumbai Football Arena and is set to run for 15 days.
The Mumbai Dreamers have assembled a formidable team, featuring renowned talents such as Olympic gold medalist Waisea Nacuqu, alongside Tuwai and Canadian rugby player Elias Hancock. The team’s coaching is led by Tim Walsh, who has also been an influential coach for the Australian Women’s Sevens team.
The squad boasts not only a strong Fijian presence but also a notable international roster. Henry Hutchison, a three-time Olympian from Australia and the 2016 World Rugby Sevens Rookie of the Year, is keen to leverage his experience in this competition. Another key player, James Turner, has showcased his skills with the Waratahs in Super Rugby and has previously represented Australia in the World Rugby Sevens Series. Additionally, Aaron Cummings, notable for being the first athlete from Davenport University to qualify for the Olympics, adds to the squad’s depth as he prepares for the upcoming Paris 2024 Games.
The Rugby Premier League represents a significant stride forward for rugby in India and aims to enhance the sport’s popularity in the nation. With six participating teams—including other franchises such as the Chennai Bulls and Delhi Redz—the league promises to deliver an exciting showcase, aiming to inspire future generations of rugby players and engage a broader audience, ultimately hoping to pave the way for India’s qualification for the Olympics by 2032.
The selection of international stars and the investment in coaching and local talent reflect a hopeful future for rugby in India, presenting opportunities for growth in both the sport and the rugby community as a whole.
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