The Indian U18 Girls Rugby team wrapped up their campaign at the Asia Rugby U18 Girls Sevens Asia Cup with a spirited fourth-place finish, marking one of their best continental performances in recent years.
While the podium eluded them after a tough 12–20 loss to Hong Kong in the bronze medal match, the journey showcased resilience, talent, and the promise of a brighter future for women’s rugby in India. India’s tournament began with a stern test against heavyweights Japan, one of Asia’s most established rugby nations. The gulf in experience was evident as Japan ran out convincing 50–7 winners. Yet, despite the margin, India’s ability to cross the try line against such an elite side showed early intent.
The girls bounced back strongly in their next fixture against Uzbekistan, recording a 14–5 victory. It was a crucial confidence booster, marked by sharp attacking plays and a defensive line that grew in discipline. Momentum carried into their final group stage match against Malaysia, where India delivered their most emphatic performance of the pool phase. A 24–5 win reflected the side’s ability to dominate both territory and possession, with tries flowing from quick offloads and decisive running lines.
The back-to-back wins sealed India’s passage into the semifinals, underlining their growth as a competitive force in the region.
Semifinal Setback Against China
In the knockout rounds, India faced China, another powerhouse of Asian rugby. Despite their best efforts, the Indians found themselves on the back foot early, with China’s superior pace and tactical nous dictating proceedings. The 5–34 loss was a reminder of the gap that still exists between India and Asia’s top-tier rugby nations. However, there were moments of grit. India managed to break through China’s defense for a well-earned try, showcasing their ability to create chances even against high-pressure opponents.
Bronze Medal Match: Narrow Miss vs Hong Kong
The third-place playoff against Hong Kong was India’s last chance to secure a medal, and it proved to be a fiercely contested match. Both sides exchanged tries in the opening minutes, but Hong Kong’s experience at the breakdown and composure in crucial moments made the difference. India went down 12–20, a scoreline that reflected how tight the contest was. The defeat meant India finished fourth overall, narrowly missing out on what would have been a historic podium.
Key Takeaways from the Campaign
Despite falling short of a medal, India’s campaign was full of positives:
- Competitive Edge – Victories against Uzbekistan and Malaysia highlighted that India can dominate teams at a similar level, proving their steady rise in Asia.
- Attacking Flair – Across matches, the girls displayed attacking variety, scoring in every game they played, even against top teams like Japan and China.
- Defensive Development – While heavy defeats against Japan and China exposed gaps, the ability to keep Uzbekistan and Malaysia to single-digit scores shows the defensive framework is improving.
- Exposure to Elite Opposition – Matches against Japan and China gave the squad invaluable experience in handling high-intensity rugby, lessons that will serve them well as they climb the ladder.
India’s fourth-place finish builds on the growing momentum of rugby in the country, especially among women. Grassroots programs run in states like Odisha, Bihar, and West Bengal have already produced a steady stream of young talent. The U18 girls’ exposure at the Asia Cup adds another layer of development, ensuring the next generation gains competitive experience early in their careers.
The campaign also reinforces the need for greater investment in fitness and conditioning, to match the speed and endurance of Asia’s top teams. Expanded domestic competitions, providing young players with more match exposure before stepping onto the continental stage. Specialized coaching and analysis, particularly in areas like breakdown efficiency, defensive organization, and set plays.
What stood out most in India’s run was the spirit with which the team played. Against Hong Kong, even in the dying minutes, the girls fought for every ball, pressing hard to close the gap. Against Malaysia, they played fearless rugby, showing what happens when confidence meets preparation. This willingness to challenge established teams, regardless of the scoreline, is what makes the fourth-place finish significant. It signals that India is not far from becoming a regular podium contender in Asia.
The Indian U18 Girls Rugby team’s journey at the Asia Rugby U18 Girls Sevens Asia Cup was about much more than wins and losses. With a record of two wins and three losses, the girls proved they could fight, adapt, and grow on the continental stage. A fourth-place finish against seasoned rugby nations is a marker of progress and a promise of potential. With continued investment, structured development, and the same fearless spirit, India’s young women could soon be standing on the podium not just competing, but contending.
For now, this campaign will be remembered as a stepping stone, a clear sign that Indian women’s rugby is steadily moving from participation to performance.
