India, June 29 -- The second season of the HSBC Rugby Premier League powered by Avid concluded in spectacular fashion at Hyderabad's Gachibowli Stadium, with the Hyderabad Heroes defeating the Mumbai Dreamers 41-17 to lift the trophy.
Winners & Prize Money:
Hyderabad Heroes took home Rs.45 lakhs, Mumbai Dreamers earned Rs.25 lakhs as runners-up, and Bengaluru Bravehearts secured third place with Rs.15 lakhs.
Star-Studded Finale:
The closing ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Telangana CM Revanth Reddy, actor Chiranjeevi, Olympian P.V. Sindhu, actress Mrunal Thakur, and Rugby India President Rahul Bose.
Rahul Bose's Statement:
He hailed Season 2 as "bigger and better," highlighting larger crowds, more world-class players, the launch of the RPL Women's League, and stronger fan engagement.
GMR Sports Vision:
CMO Sujoy Ganguly emphasized rugby's potential to become one of India's fastest-growing sports, citing grassroots development and aspirational platforms for athletes.
Final Match Recap
- Hyderabad's defense forced turnovers early, converting them into swift counter-attacks.
- Key contributions came from Francisco Cosculluela, Taitaifono Tavita, Manuel Moreno, and Maurice Longbottom.
- Mumbai fought back with tries from Ethan McFarland, James Turner, and Sukumar Hembrom, but Hyderabad's relentless tempo and clinical finishing sealed the victory.
- Bengaluru Bravehearts edged Chennai Bulls 22-19 in the third-place playoff.
This triumph not only cements Hyderabad Heroes' dominance but also underscores rugby's growing footprint in India, with the league expanding fan engagement and introducing a women's competition.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Travel Media.