For over 15 years, Scott Curry has been at the highest level of rugby sevens and knows what it takes for the sport to grow. With changes happening in international rugby and worries about the World Series, rugby needed something new. According to Curry, India has provided that with the launch of the Rugby Premier League (RPL). He views the RPL as more than just an experiment. "I think it's great for the game," he said. "Sevens is exciting. To see India putting real resources behind it – this could be the future."
The Rugby Premier League (RPL), the first franchise-based rugby sevens league in the world, kicked off its inaugural season on June 15, 2025, at the Mumbai Football Arena. Organized by Rugby India and GMR Sports with support from World Rugby, the league features six city-based teams: Bengaluru Bravehearts, Chennai Bulls, Delhi Redz, Hyderabad Heroes, Kalinga Black Tigers, and Mumbai Dreamers. The tournament is scheduled to run until June 29, 2025.
The RPL has attracted significant international talent, with 30 marquee players from countries such as Argentina, South Africa, Kenya, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and the USA. These international stars are joined by 30 of India's top players, selected from a pool of 71, creating a blend of global expertise and local talent. Each team consists of five foreign players, three "bridge" players (from Hong Kong China, Germany, and Canada), and five Indian players.
Scott Curry, a former New Zealand captain and Tokyo Olympic silver medalist, is co-captaining the Bengaluru Bravehearts alongside Pol Pla Vegue. Curry admitted he wasn't very familiar with India's rugby scene but has been impressed by the skill of the local players. He believes that the RPL could spark a rugby revolution in India, given its large population.
The format of the RPL includes 34 matches, with 30 matches in a double round-robin league stage, followed by two semi-finals, a third-place playoff, and the final. Matches consist of four-minute quarters with two-minute breaks, totaling 22 minutes per match. The league has secured a dedicated spot in the international Rugby 7s calendar, ensuring top players can participate.
The RPL also features some of the biggest names in rugby coaching, including Mike Friday (former USA 7s head coach), Ben Gollings (former Fiji head coach), and DJ Forbes (New Zealand 7s). These coaches bring a wealth of experience to help develop both international and Indian players.
According to Rahul Bose, president of Rugby India, the RPL brings significant changes in infrastructure and scouting. Team owners are investing in infrastructure, from grounds to physical therapists, nutrition coaches, and masseurs. The league also includes top broadcasters, World Rugby match referees, medical commissioners, and commentators.
The launch of the RPL has been celebrated as a potential turning point for rugby in India. Satyam Trivedi, CEO of GMR Sports, noted that the league aims to elevate rugby in India by showcasing a mix of international and Indian talent. With the support of franchise owners, the RPL is set to redefine the sport's future in the country.
The matches are available for live streaming on JioHotstar and live telecast on Star Sports Select 1 and Star Sports Select 1 HD TV channels in India.
