Top Fijian and international rugby sevens players are set to compete in the inaugural Indian Rugby Premier League, which aims to enhance the visibility of the sport in India. Among the prominent players participating are Waisea Nacuqu, Joseva Talacolo, Joji Nasova, and New Zealand’s Akuila Rokolisoa.
The league features a diverse group of athletes, including Australia’s Henry Hutchinson, Ireland’s Terry Kennedy, South Africa’s Rosko Specman, Argentina’s Luciano Rizzoni, Spain’s Alejandro Castro, New Zealand veteran Scott Curry, and USA’s Perry Baker. This seasonal competition, inspired by both the HSBC SVNS Series and the Indian Super League, looks to grow rugby’s reach in the Indian sporting arena.
The tournament will take place over two weeks in Mumbai, from June 1 to June 14, and will incorporate franchise teams including the Mumbai Dreamers, Kalinga Black Tigers, Hyderabad Heroes, Delhi Redz, Chennai Bulls, and Bengaluru Bravehearts. Notably, Talacolo is set to join the Chennai Bulls under the leadership of former Fiji 7s coach Ben Gollings.
This new league in India represents a significant step forward for rugby, especially as it harnesses international talent to foster the sport’s growth and engagement in a new market. Such initiatives not only highlight the unifying nature of sports but also open doors for future talents to emerge in rugby, contributing to a brighter future for the sport.
The introduction of this league emphasizes the global appeal of rugby and provides players with unique opportunities to showcase their skills on an international stage, potentially inspiring a new generation of rugby enthusiasts in India.
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