The Rugby Premier League (RPL) Season 2 officially got underway on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, with a grand opening ceremony at Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad, signalling the start of India's most prominent professional rugby competition. Hosted in Hyderabad for the first time, the event also saw the unveiling of the Women's Trophy, marking a landmark expansion of the league.

A Bigger, More Inclusive Season

Season 2 of the HSBC Rugby Premier League builds on its successful inaugural edition with a significantly expanded format. The competition now features six city-based men's franchises alongside the debut of four women's franchises — the most consequential structural change in the league's short history. Players from 20 countries are represented this season, up from the previous edition, bringing a sharper international edge to the tournament. Matches will run through 28 June 2026 at Gachibowli Stadium.

What the Government Said

Vakiti Srihari, Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Telangana, welcomed the league to the city, saying: 'The Government of Telangana is proud to host the Rugby Premier League and welcomes players, officials, and fans to Hyderabad. The introduction of women's franchises is a commendable step that reflects the league's inclusive vision and will contribute significantly to the growth of rugby in India.'

Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Special Chief Secretary to the Government (Youth Advancement, Tourism and Culture and Sports Department), Government of Telangana, added that hosting the RPL is 'a testament to Telangana's vision of becoming a leading hub for sports in India.' A. Soni Bala Devi, IFS, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director, Sports Authority of Telangana (SATG), noted that the state had provided 'comprehensive operational and infrastructure assistance' to ensure the event's smooth conduct.

Rugby India's Vision for RPL 2026

Rahul Bose, President of Rugby India, struck an ambitious tone at the ceremony: 'As promised, RPL 2026 takes the success of RPL 2025 even further. More world-class players, more countries represented (20), and, last but not least, RPL Women. All of this and more result in an even more absorbing, more exciting time for fans and viewers with more games per day, stands that bring you closer to the action, and fan activities in-stadium.'

Also present at the ceremony were Kiran Kumar Grandhi, Corporate Chairman of GMR Group, and actor and singer Shruti Haasan, among other distinguished guests, who joined players on stage to mark the occasion.

Hyderabad as India's Rugby Capital

Over the next two weeks, Hyderabad will serve as the nerve centre of Indian rugby, hosting fast-paced rugby sevens action at one of the country's premier sporting venues. This comes amid a broader push by Telangana to position itself as a destination for elite sporting events, backed by sustained investment in infrastructure. Notably, the RPL's decision to introduce women's franchises in only its second season places it ahead of several established Indian sports leagues in terms of gender inclusion. With the tournament running until 28 June, all eyes will be on whether the women's competition can generate the same momentum as the men's edition did in Season 1.