NEW DELHI: Rugby India, in collaboration with GMR Sports, has announced the launch of the Rugby Premier League (RPL), the world’s first franchise-based Rugby 7s league. The tournament will take place in Mumbai at the Brihanmumbai Kreeda Ani Lalitkala Prarthisthan Andheri Sports Complex (Mumbai Football Arena, MFA) from June 1 to June 15, 2025.
A Game-Changer for Indian Rugby
RPL will feature top Rugby 7s talent, including elite global players and India’s finest rugby stars. A special 15-day window has been secured on the global Rugby 7s calendar, ensuring participation from the sport’s biggest names.
ALSO READ: Microsoft Turns 50: AI-Powered chat unites Gates, Ballmer & Nadella
A total of 34 matches will be played over 15 days. The event will be broadcast live on Star Sports and JioHotstar.
Six city-based teams will compete in the league:
- Bengaluru Bravehearts
- Chennai Bulls
- Delhi Redz
- Hyderabad Heroes
- Kalinga Black Tigers
- Mumbai Dreamers
International Stars in Action
RPL will welcome 30 international marquee players from leading Rugby 7s nations, including Argentina, South Africa, Kenya, Great Britain, New Zealand, Australia, Spain, Fiji, USA, and Ireland.
Some of the biggest names include:
- Perry Baker (USA) – 2X World Rugby 7s Player of the Year, 3X Olympian
- Scott Curry (New Zealand) – 6X World Rugby Sevens Series Champion
- Waisea Nacuqu (Fiji) – 2020 Olympic Gold, 2024 Olympic Silver
- Henry Hutchison (Australia) – 3X Olympian, 2015 World Rugby Rookie of the Year
- Terry Kennedy (Ireland) – World Rugby 7s Player of the Year 2022
- Jordan Conroy (Ireland) – 2X Olympian, World Rugby Sevens Series and RWC7s Medalist
Additionally, 18 international players from Canada, Hong Kong, and Germany will strengthen the league’s competitive depth.
Boosting Indian Rugby Talent
The league will also feature 30 Indian players selected from an auction pool of 71. This offers a historic opportunity for Indian players to compete alongside global legends and elevate their game.
Top Coaches on Board
- Mike Friday (USA 7s Head Coach)
- Ben Gollings (Fiji 7s Head Coach)
- DJ Forbes (New Zealand 7s Icon)
- Paco Hernandez (Spain 7s Coach)
- Tomasi Cama (Fiji 7s Great)
- Tim Walsh (Australia Women’s 7s Head Coach)
Voices Behind the League
Satyam Trivedi, CEO, GMR Sports: “The Rugby Premier League is a pivotal step in elevating rugby in India. By bringing together international stars and local talent, this league will redefine the sport’s future. The RPL will attract new audiences and offer Indian players an invaluable platform to compete at a global level.”
Rahul Bose, President, Rugby India: “This league has been six years in the making. World Rugby gave us a 15-day window where no other international Rugby 7s matches would be played. This ensured the availability of the best global players. From partnering with GMR Sports to securing top-class broadcast partners, this has been an incredible journey. Rugby 7s is one of the most attractive TV sports today. Welcome to the Rugby Premier League.”
Sanjog Gupta, CEO-Sports, JioStar: “At JioStar, we are revolutionizing sports entertainment. The Rugby Premier League, with its fast-paced format, will attract new audiences and deepen engagement. With Star Sports and JioHotstar, we are committed to delivering a world-class viewing experience.”
Rugby India is the official governing body for Rugby Union in India. It is affiliated with World Rugby, Asia Rugby, and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Rugby India was awarded the Best Sports Federation – Development at the 2025 Indian Sports Awards by FICCI.
The Rugby Premier League is set to revolutionize rugby in India, offering an exciting blend of international expertise and homegrown talent. As rugby continues to grow as an Olympic sport, RPL will play a key role in shaping its future in India.
