Indian rugby’s flagship franchise competition is set for a significant step forward as GMR Sports, in partnership with Rugby India, announced that the second edition of the Rugby Premier League (RPL) will be held in Hyderabad from June 16 to 28, 2026.
The tournament will take place at the Gachibowli Stadium, marking a shift from its inaugural edition in Mumbai and signalling the league’s ambition to expand both its reach and influence.
The Rugby Premier League, played in the fast-paced Rugby 7s format, returns with the same six franchises that featured in its debut season. The format, which emphasises speed, skill, and high-intensity gameplay, aligns with global trends and the Olympic structure of the sport, making it an effective vehicle for both fan engagement and athlete development.
The decision to host the tournament in Hyderabad is not incidental. It reflects GMR Sports’ broader strategic push toward building integrated sporting ecosystems across India. The announcement comes on the back of a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between GMR Sports and the Government of Telangana, aimed at developing a Satellite Sports City within Bharat Future City.
This initiative is expected to play a long-term role in nurturing talent, improving infrastructure, and positioning Hyderabad as a key hub for multi-sport excellence.
From an administrative standpoint, the move has been welcomed by the Telangana government. Senior officials have emphasised the importance of hosting international-standard events in driving tourism, enhancing the city’s global sporting profile, and contributing to the sports economy. Hyderabad’s existing infrastructure, connectivity, and growing reputation as a sporting destination make it a logical choice for an event of this scale.
For Rugby India, the second season represents an opportunity to build on the foundation laid by the inaugural edition. League president Rahul Bose highlighted the importance of continuous improvement, stressing that the focus remains on delivering a better product across all aspects competition quality, fan engagement, broadcast experience, and stakeholder partnerships.
This philosophy reflects a broader understanding of what it takes to establish a sustainable sporting league in India. Beyond on-field action, the RPL aims to create a compelling ecosystem that benefits players, franchises, sponsors, and fans alike. Enhancing the viewing experience, improving competitive standards, and strengthening operational execution are all part of this evolution.
GMR Sports, which has steadily expanded its footprint across multiple sporting disciplines, sees the Rugby Premier League as a key component of its diversified portfolio. CEO Satyam Trivedi pointed to Hyderabad’s suitability as a host city, citing its world-class facilities, passionate fan base, and strategic relevance to the organisation’s long-term vision. The presence of a Hyderabad-based franchise further reinforces the city’s importance within the league’s structure.
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From a high-performance perspective, the tournament offers a valuable platform for Indian players to compete alongside and against international talent. Exposure to high-intensity matches in a professional setup is critical for bridging the gap between domestic rugby and global standards. Events like the RPL provide that exposure in a structured and consistent manner.
Dr. A. Sonibala Devi of the Sports Authority of Telangana underlined this aspect, noting that hosting such competitions contributes directly to athlete development. The opportunity to observe, compete, and learn within a high-performance environment accelerates growth, particularly for emerging players looking to establish themselves at higher levels.
The Rugby 7s format itself adds to the league’s appeal. With shorter matches, faster transitions, and higher scoring potential, it offers a spectator-friendly experience that is well-suited to both stadium audiences and broadcast platforms. This makes it an effective entry point for new fans, while retaining the tactical depth that appeals to purists of the sport.
The second edition will also test the league’s ability to sustain momentum beyond its debut season. While the inaugural edition established initial interest, long-term success will depend on consistency in delivery, audience engagement, and competitive balance. Retaining the same six franchises provides continuity, but also places responsibility on organisers to elevate the overall product.
For Indian rugby, the significance of the Rugby Premier League extends beyond the immediate tournament window. It represents a structured attempt to professionalise the sport, create visibility, and build pathways for players. In a sporting landscape dominated by a few major disciplines, initiatives like the RPL are crucial for expanding the ecosystem and diversifying opportunities.
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GMR Sports’ broader involvement in multiple leagues ranging from cricket to kabaddi and kho kho demonstrates a model of multi-sport investment that could be pivotal in shaping the future of Indian sport. By integrating infrastructure development, franchise ownership, and league operations, the organisation is positioning itself as a key stakeholder in the country’s sporting growth.
As the countdown to June begins, attention will gradually shift to squad announcements, international signings, and fan engagement initiatives. However, the decision to bring the Rugby Premier League to Hyderabad already sets the tone for what promises to be a more ambitious and refined second season.
With a new host city, an evolving framework, and a clear emphasis on quality, the Rugby Premier League 2026 aims to not only entertain but also strengthen the foundations of rugby in India.
