Hyderabad Heroes crowned champions of Rugby Premier League Season 2
Hyderabad, June 28
Hyderabad Heroes were crowned champions of the Rugby Premier League Season 2 after defeating Mumbai Dreamers by 41-17 in a thrilling final at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad on Sunday.
Following an exciting season of world-class rugby action, Hyderabad Heroes lifted the championship trophy and received the winner's prize of Rs. 45 lakhs, while Mumbai Dreamers finished runners-up and claimed Rs. 25 lakhs. Bengaluru Bravehearts secured third place and received prize money of Rs. 15 lakhs.
Rahul Bose, president, Rugby India, said, "The HSBC RPL 2026 Powered by Avid, has been bigger and better than the previous year's league, in every way: larger crowds, even more world class players, an RPL Women's league, greater fan engagement both online and offline, more sponsorship, and, we believe, much larger viewing numbers on broadcast. What more could we ask for? Thank you to each and every Indian who has discovered their love for this incredibly exciting sport."
Hyderabad Heroes produced a clinical performance in the final to overcome Mumbai Dreamers by 41-17 and claim the Rugby Premier League Season 2 title.
The Dreamers dominated early possession but were unable to convert it into points as Hyderabad's disciplined defence forced crucial turnovers. The Heroes capitalised through swift counter-attacks, with Francisco Cosculluela's steal setting up Taitaifono Tavita before Manuel Moreno won possession to create an easy finish for Shivam Shukla. Maurice Longbottom then added a drop goal to give Hyderabad complete control heading into the break.
The Heroes maintained their relentless tempo after half-time, with Tavita again creating space on the left for Diego Ardao to score. Mumbai finally found a breakthrough as quicker ball movement released Ethan McFarland, but Hyderabad continued to punish turnovers, with Ardao grabbing his second before Kevin Wekesa finished a flowing move out wide. Terio Tamani extended the advantage early in the final quarter, while James Turner pulled one back for the Dreamers before setting up Sukumar Hembrom late on. However, Hyderabad's clinical finishing and defensive intensity ensured they closed out a commanding victory.
Meanwhile, Bengaluru Bravehearts secured third place after defeating Chennai Bulls 22-19 in an entertaining play-off encounter.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Was lucky to be at Gachibowli Stadium! The atmosphere was electric. Tavita and Ardao were monsters on the field. But I wish the women's league got more coverage - they deserve limelight too. Good job Rahul Bose for pushing the sport forward!
I am from Hyderabad originally but now in Delhi. This makes me proud! When I was growing up, nobody even knew rugby here. Now we have a league with good money and foreign players. The growth is slow but steady. Hope more states set up academies for grassroots development.
Congrats to Hyderabad Heroes! As someone who has followed RPL since season 1, the improvement in quality is visible. But I would like to see more Indian players getting game time and development. The foreign stars are amazing, but the ultimate goal should be building a national team that can compete globally. 🌍
I am a huge rugby fan from Mumbai, and while I am sad Dreamers lost, I have to admit Hyderabad were simply better. Their counter-attacks were lightning quick. The drop goal by Longbottom was a beauty. Hopefully next season we can close the gap. One suggestion though - please broadcast more matches on free-to-air TV. Many fans can't afford subscriptions! 📺
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