Bengaluru Bravehearts returned to winning form with a commanding 38-28 victory over Delhi Redz in the men's section on Day 3 of Rugby Premier League Season 2, held at the Ganti Mohana Chandra Balayogi Athletic Stadium in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, on Thursday, 18 June. In the women's fixture of the day, Chennai Bulls and Mumbai Dreamers shared the spoils in a pulsating 26-26 draw.

Bravehearts Grind Out a Win

Akuila Rokolisoa gave Bengaluru an early foothold, but Patrick Odongo's interception try quickly levelled matters for Delhi Redz. Shilton van Wyk then struck twice to restore the Bravehearts' advantage, before Luciano Gonzalez and Odongo combined to swing momentum back in Delhi's favour.

Van Wyk completed a hat-trick early in the second half — a standout individual performance — while Gonzalez replied with another brilliant solo effort. Ngarohi McGarvey kept Bengaluru's noses in front, and Ryan Apps' long-range try in the final quarter put the result beyond doubt, sealing a 10-point win.

Women's Section: Bauder's Late Heroics Force a Draw

Lachmi Oraon gave Mumbai Dreamers the ideal start in the women's clash, only for Savannah Bauder's try and conversion to hand Chennai Bulls the lead. Amandeep Kaur extended Chennai's advantage as the Bulls dominated possession through the second quarter.

Mumbai hit back through Mama Naik and Grace Okulu, but Sandhyarani Tudu kept the Bulls level. Bhumika Shukla's late try appeared to have secured the win for Mumbai — until Bauder crossed over in the dying moments to force a dramatic 26-26 draw.

Wednesday's Results Provide Context

The Day 3 action followed a productive Wednesday at the same venue, where hosts Hyderabad Heroes beat Delhi Redz 31-17 and Mumbai Dreamers defeated Bengaluru Bravehearts 19-7 in the men's section. Bengaluru's rebound win on Thursday is particularly significant given that defeat.

About the Rugby Premier League

The Rugby Premier League was launched by Rugby India — the official national governing body for Rugby Union in India — in its inaugural season last year, providing Indian players the opportunity to compete alongside international stars. Rugby India is affiliated with World Rugby, Asia Rugby, and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), and is recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS). The league is seen as a key vehicle for broadening the sport's reach across the country.

Fixtures Still to Come

Later on the same day, the women's franchise Delhi Redz were scheduled to face Kolkata Banga Tigers, while the men's Chennai Bulls were set to take on Hyderabad Heroes in the final match of the day.