
The Rugby Premier League (RPL) stands as a bold initiative to elevate rugby sevens in India, a nation where cricket has long dominated the sporting landscape. Launched by Rugby India in collaboration with GMR Sports, the RPL is positioned as the world’s first franchise-based rugby sevens league, set to debut from June 15 to June 29, 2025, at the Mumbai Football Arena. We delve into the origins, structure, and potential impact of the RPL, offering a comprehensive look at this significant development in Indian sports.
The Roots of Rugby in India
Rugby’s history in India traces back to the British colonial era, with the earliest recorded match played on Christmas Day 1872 in Calcutta (now Kolkata) between England and a combined team of Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. The Calcutta Football Club, formed in 1873, played a pivotal role, even contributing to the creation of the Calcutta Cup in 1878, a trophy still contested annually by England and Scotland. Despite this early enthusiasm, rugby’s popularity waned, overshadowed by other sports. The establishment of Rugby India in 1998 marked a revival, with affiliation to World Rugby in 1999 and growing participation, reaching 57,000 registered players by 2016, including 7,160 women.
The sport’s inclusion in the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi and the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 in Patna highlights its gradual rise. Recent achievements, such as the Indian women’s team defeating Singapore in 2019 and West Bengal winning the 2025 Men’s Senior National Rugby Sevens Championship, underscore the sport’s growing traction.
The Rugby Premier League: Structure and Format
The RPL introduces a professional, franchise-based model to rugby sevens, a format known for its speed and accessibility, featuring seven players per team and seven-minute halves. The league comprises six city-based teams:
- Bengaluru Bravehearts
- Chennai Bulls
- Delhi Redz
- Hyderabad Heroes
- Kalinga Black Tigers
- Mumbai Dreamers
Each team consists of 13 players: five international marquee players from top rugby nations, three bridge players from emerging rugby countries like Hong Kong and Canada, and five Indian players selected from a pool of 71. The tournament spans 15 days, with 34 matches, including a double round-robin phase (30 pool games), two semi-finals, a bronze medal match, and a final. Matches, lasting 22 minutes with four-minute quarters, are scheduled for two per night on weekdays and three on weekends, ensuring a compact, viewer-friendly schedule.
Star Players and Coaching Talent
The RPL has attracted global rugby sevens stars, enhancing its appeal. Notable international players include Perry Baker (USA), Rosko Speckman (South Africa), Harry McNulty (Ireland), and Akuila Rokolisoa (New Zealand), among 30 marquee players from countries like Argentina, Fiji, and Australia. Indian players, though less highlighted, are crucial, with 30 selected through an auction to compete alongside these veterans. The league’s coaching roster is equally impressive, featuring Mike Friday (USA 7s Head Coach), Ben Gollings (England 7s legend), and Tim Walsh (Australia Women’s 7s Head Coach), ensuring strategic depth and player development.
Venue and Broadcast Reach
The Mumbai Football Arena, officially the Brihanmumbai Kreeda Ani Lalitkala Prarthisthan Andheri Sports Complex, will host all RPL matches. This modern facility, known for football, is well-suited for the high-energy rugby sevens format. The league’s broadcast on Star Sports and JioHotstar, with additional streaming on RugbyPass TV, ensures accessibility to a wide audience, potentially expanding rugby’s fan base in India. This visibility is critical, as rugby seeks to carve a niche in a cricket-dominated market.
Betting on the Rugby Premier League
Several online betting sites in India will offer betting on the Rugby Premier League. Amongst some recommendable sites are Stake, 1xBet, and Parimatch, who all offers odds for the RPL in 2025
Impact on Indian Rugby
The RPL is poised to significantly influence rugby’s growth in India. By providing a professional platform, it offers Indian players exposure to world-class competition, fostering skill development. The league’s franchise model, backed by corporate owners like Dream Sports and RMZ Corp, mirrors successful leagues like the Indian Premier League, suggesting financial stability and long-term potential. Rugby India’s president, Rahul Bose, has emphasised its role in elevating the sport, as seen in discussions with New Zealand officials.
The league also aligns with broader sports development initiatives. For instance, its inclusion in the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 reflects government support for diversifying sports. Plans for a women’s league in 2026 further indicate a commitment to inclusivity. Additionally, platforms like Dream11 are exploring rugby fantasy sports, which could attract new fans.
Future Prospects
As the RPL approaches its inaugural season, anticipation is high. World Rugby’s support, granting a 15-day exclusive window, ensures top international participation. This will undoubtedly reinforce the league’s credibility. The league’s success could position India as an emerging rugby hub in Asia, especially given the sport’s Olympic status. While some platforms offer insights into rugby’s competitive aspects, the RPL focuses on pure sport, aiming to captivate audiences through athletic excellence.
The Rugby Premier League represents a significant step for Indian rugby, blending historical legacy with modern ambition. By showcasing global and local talent, leveraging high-profile broadcasts, and fostering grassroots growth, the RPL could redefine rugby’s place in India. As the nation prepares for this historic tournament, the stage is set for rugby to capture the imagination of a new generation of fans.