Mrunal Thakur cheers Hyderabad Heroes after HSBC Rugby Premier League Season 2 final win
Hyderabad, June 29
Actor Mrunal Thakur praised the HSBC Rugby Premier League Season 2 after attending the tournament's final in Hyderabad, where the Hyderabad Heroes defeated the Mumbai Dreamers 41-17 to lift the title.
Sharing her experience after the final, Mrunal said, "It was so lovely to be here and the rugby premier league is one of its like it's a kind it's an experience..."
She added, "So next time please do not miss it thanks to Rahul and the entire team they've put in so much hard work and fortunately Hyderabad weather was like you know in our favour so congratulations to the champions and trust me I had so much fun it's not an easy game the amount of hard work and dedication the players put in guys you gotta witness it next year as well do not miss it," while speaking to ANI.
The actor congratulated the newly crowned champions and applauded the efforts of the organisers and players, encouraging fans to attend the tournament next season.
On the field, the Hyderabad Heroes delivered a clinical performance to overcome the Mumbai Dreamers 41-17 in the HSBC Rugby Premier League Season 2 final.
According to a press release, the Dreamers controlled possession in the early stages but failed 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 firm control heading into the break.
Hyderabad maintained the momentum after half-time, with Tavita creating space for Diego Ardao to score. Mumbai responded through Ethan McFarland, but Hyderabad continued to punish turnovers as Ardao completed his second try before Kevin Wekesa added another score.
Terio Tamani extended the Heroes' lead in the final quarter. James Turner pulled one back for Mumbai before setting up Sukumar Hembrom late in the contest, but Hyderabad's clinical finishing and defensive intensity ensured a commanding victory.
In the third-place play-off, the Bengaluru Bravehearts edged past the Chennai Bulls 22-19 in an entertaining contest to finish the season on a winning note.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally some action apart from IPL! The way Hyderabad's defence turned those Mumbai attacks into counter-attacks was top class. Tavita and Ardao were on fire. Hope rugby grows more in India, we have the physique for it.
Mrunal ji ka presence toh kamaal ka tha! But honestly, I wish there was more coverage of such events on national TV. Rugby se kids ko discipline and teamwork sikhne milta hai. Bengaluru vs Chennai third place match bhi close tha, 22-19, nice!
Mumbai Dreamers had early possession but couldn't capitalise. Hyderabad's counter-attacks were brutal. Cosculluela's steal changed the game. Good to see rugby developing in India, but we need more grassroots programs to compete internationally. Kudos to the organisers!
As a Hyderabadi, feeling proud! Mrunal's energy was infectious. The way Shivam Shukla finished that try after Moreno won possession shows Indian players can excel in rugby. Next season, I'm definitely going to watch live. 🏉
I love that Mrunal Thakur is supporting non-cricket sports. Rugby is tough, and the players deserve recognition. However, I wish the press release had more details about the Indian players' performances - not just the foreign stars. Still, great win for Hyderabad!
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