ndia is set to make a significant mark in the world of rugby with the launch of the Rugby Premier League (RPL) — the country's first-ever franchise-based rugby sevens tournament. Scheduled to kick off on June 1, 2025, at the Mumbai Football Arena, this high-intensity 15-day event could very well change the way India looks at rugby.
The RPL will feature six city-based teams:
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Bengaluru Bravehearts
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Chennai Bulls
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Delhi Redz
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Hyderabad Heroes
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Kalinga Black Tigers
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Mumbai Dreamers
Each team is built around a balanced core of international stars and top-performing Indian players. Over 30 marquee global players from rugby powerhouses like New Zealand, South Africa, and Argentina are set to compete alongside the best Indian talent, selected through a domestic player auction.
Matches will follow a dynamic format — four quarters of four minutes each, promising high-octane action in under 25 minutes per game. Across the 15 days, fans will witness 34 matches including pool games, knockout rounds, a bronze medal match, and the grand final.
The RPL is powered by GMR Sports in collaboration with Rugby India, and it aims to create a new fan base for the sport through professional execution, aggressive marketing, and accessible broadcasts on television and digital platforms.
More than a league, the RPL is a bold move to elevate rugby’s presence in India — a nation where the sport has often lived in the shadows of cricket and football. For India’s young athletes, it opens new doors. For fans, it’s a thrilling, fast-paced alternative that celebrates grit, teamwork, and global sportsmanship.
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