Hyderabad Heroes Lift Rugby Premier League Season 2 Trophy with Dominant Victory at Home
Clinical 41-17 win over Mumbai Dreamers caps a remarkable campaign as Hyderabad emerges as India's new rugby powerhouse
The victory not only crowned Hyderabad as champions of India's premier franchise rugby competition but also highlighted the city's emergence as an important destination for professional rugby in the country.
Hyderabad: Hyderabad has added another major sporting achievement to its growing credentials as a host of world-class sporting events, with the Hyderabad Heroes clinching the Rugby Premier League (RPL) Season 2 title after a commanding 41-17 victory over the Mumbai Dreamers in the grand finale at the Gachibowli Stadium.
Playing in front of an enthusiastic home crowd on Sunday evening, the Heroes produced an impressive all-round performance, combining disciplined defence with explosive attacking rugby to secure their maiden Rugby Premier League championship.
The victory not only crowned Hyderabad as champions of India’s premier franchise rugby competition but also highlighted the city’s emergence as an important destination for professional rugby in the country.
A final dominated by the Heroes
The championship clash began with Mumbai Dreamers controlling possession during the opening exchanges, but Hyderabad’s organised defensive structure repeatedly forced turnovers and denied the visitors any early advantage.
Capitalising on those mistakes, the Heroes quickly shifted the momentum through swift counter-attacks. Francisco Cosculluela’s timely interception created the opening opportunity before Taitaifono Tavita’s attacking run set up Shivam Shukla for the first score.
Captain Manuel Moreno then inspired another turnover that eventually led to Maurice Longbottom adding a crucial drop goal, giving Hyderabad firm control before halftime.
The Heroes maintained their intensity after the break.
Tavita again unlocked the Mumbai defence, this time creating space for Diego Ardao, who crossed over to extend Hyderabad’s advantage. Although Mumbai finally responded through Ethan McFarland, the Heroes continued to dominate the contest with Ardao registering his second score before Kevin Wekesa and Terio Tamani added further points.
Late efforts from James Turner and Sukumar Hembrom reduced the deficit for Mumbai, but Hyderabad’s relentless pace and disciplined execution ensured there was never any real threat to their commanding lead.
Coach hails team’s commitment
Head Coach DJ Forbes credited the team’s work ethic and rapid bonding during the short preparation period.
“Extremely proud of the boys. Throughout the tournament we knew we were one of the better teams, but we had to prove it on the field. After all the hard work, they got the reward we came for—the championship.”
Captain Manuel Moreno echoed similar sentiments, praising the players for quickly coming together despite having limited preparation time before the tournament.
Vice-captain Sumit Kumar Roy, who was also named the Indian Player of the Tournament, described the title as the reward for the team’s unity and commitment both on and off the field.
“We worked extremely hard for this moment. The way the team bonded away from the field translated into our performances on it. Winning the Indian Player of the Tournament award makes this victory even more special.”
Star-studded finale
The championship match attracted several prominent personalities from sports, entertainment and public life.
The trophy presentation was attended by Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, GMR Group Corporate Chairman Kiran Kumar Grandhi, actor Chiranjeevi, Olympic and World Champion PV Sindhu, actress Mrunal Thakur, GMR Airports Chairman GBS Raju, and Rahul Bose, President of Rugby India and League Commissioner of the Rugby Premier League.
Their presence reflected the growing popularity of franchise rugby and the league’s ambition to establish itself among India’s leading professional sporting competitions.
Rugby’s growing footprint in India
Organised by GMR Sports in partnership with Rugby India, the Rugby Premier League has rapidly evolved into India’s flagship professional rugby tournament.
By bringing together international stars, Indian talent and professional coaching staff, the league aims to accelerate the development of rugby while expanding its fan base across the country.
For Hyderabad, hosting the tournament and witnessing the home franchise lift the championship represents another milestone in the city’s sporting journey. Already recognised for hosting international badminton, cricket, football and athletics events, Hyderabad is steadily strengthening its reputation as one of India’s leading sports destinations.
A victory beyond the trophy
The Hyderabad Heroes’ triumph is more than just a championship victory. It demonstrates how franchise-based leagues are helping nurture emerging sports in India by providing competitive platforms, attracting global expertise and inspiring young athletes to pursue new sporting careers.
As rugby continues to gain momentum in the country, Hyderabad’s title-winning campaign could become an important chapter in the sport’s growth story, proving that with professional management, strong grassroots development and passionate fan support, India is steadily expanding beyond its traditional sporting landscape.
The emphatic 41-17 victory in front of a home crowd will be remembered not only as Hyderabad Heroes’ first Rugby Premier League title, but also as a landmark moment for Indian rugby.
