Archive · 12 Jun 2025
GMR Sports to Launch Rugby Premier League in India
The Rugby Premier League (RPL), a new rugby competition, is starting in India.
It's organized by the same group that manages IPL cricket teams.
Six teams from different cities will compete in Mumbai from June 15th to 29th.
Instead of the usual long rugby games, they will play a shorter version to keep viewers interested.
Top players from around the world will be paid to participate, along with Indian players.
This league is expected to grow rugby in India.
The inaugural Rugby Premier League (RPL) will be held from June 15-29 at Mumbai Football Arena.
Six franchises will compete in the RPL: Delhi Redz, Hyderabad Heroes, Kalinga Black Tigers, Chennai Bulls, Mumbai Dreamers, and Bengaluru Bravehearts.
The league is organized by GMR Sports, leveraging experience from managing IPL franchises.
The RPL will use the Rugby 7s format, adjusted for television with four-minute quarters.
International marquee players will earn up to USD 15,000 for the tournament.
- Who
- GMR Sports, led by CEO Satyam Trivedi, is organizing the RPL.
- What
- The inaugural Rugby Premier League (RPL) is set to take place in Mumbai.
- When
- The inaugural RPL will be held from June 15 to 29, 2025.
- Where
- The RPL will be held at the Mumbai Football Arena in Andheri, Mumbai.
- Why
- To capitalize on the growing interest in rugby and leverage experience from managing IPL franchises.
- League Name
- Rugby Premier League (RPL)
- Location
- Mumbai, India
- Start Date
- June 15, 2025
- End Date
- June 29, 2025
- Format
- Rugby 7s (adapted)
- Teams
- 6 Franchises
- Organizer
- GMR Sports
- International Player Earnings
- Up to USD 15,000
