Rugby India Begins Rugby Premier League Featuring Six City-Centric Teams

New Delhi, Dec 23 (NationPress) Rugby India, the national governing body for rugby, has officially initiated the Rugby Premier League (RPL), the world's first franchise-based league featuring six city-centric teams that will showcase elite rugby talent globally. Set to launch in 2025, the Rugby Premier League aims to unite the country's top rugby athletes with outstanding international talent, significantly elevating the sport's profile in the nation.

The RPL results from a collaboration between Rugby India and GMR Sports, a trailblazer in India’s sports landscape. This partnership represents a significant advancement for GMR Sports as it expands its tradition of innovation and excellence into the fast-evolving domain of Rugby 7s, one of the most rapidly growing sports worldwide.

In discussing this groundbreaking partnership, Kiran Kumar Grandhi, Chairman of GMR Sports, remarked: "At GMR Sports, we are committed to shaping the future of sports in India by establishing platforms that motivate athletes and spectators alike. The Rugby Premier League is more than just a league—it is a movement aimed at bringing top-tier rugby to India while promoting grassroots development. Collaborating with Rugby India underscores our dedication to creating opportunities and setting standards for excellence in every sport we engage with. We are thrilled to lead this exciting new chapter in Indian sports."

"The Rugby Premier League is poised to enthrall audiences while laying a robust foundation for rugby’s advancement in India. By providing young Indian talent with exposure to international athletes and elite coaching, the league seeks to establish a sustainable ecosystem for the sport," informed stakeholders in a recent release.

Rahul Bose, President of Rugby India, highlighted the league’s transformative capabilities. "The Rugby Premier League is a revolutionary force for rugby in India. With the backing of World Rugby and the expertise of GMR Sports, we are prepared to present a league that spotlights the best talent and professionalism. Fans can anticipate action-packed rugby that will motivate the next generation of athletes in our nation."

The official announcement regarding city-based franchises, ownership specifics, and international coaching staff is set to occur in five weeks, setting the stage for a memorable inaugural season of the Rugby Premier League.