🏉 India’s Rugby Revolution: Inside the Launch of the 2025 Rugby Premier League​ The Sun +2 Wikipedia +2 Wikipedia +2

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In a landmark move for Indian sports, the nation is set to witness the debut of its first-ever franchise-based Rugby Premier League (RPL) in June 2025. Organized by Rugby India in collaboration with GMR Sports, this initiative aims to elevate rugby's profile in the country and position India as a formidable force in the global rugby sevens arena.​Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1

📅 RPL 2025: Key Details

  • Dates: June 1–15, 2025

  • Venue: Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai

  • Teams: 6 city-based franchises

  • Matches: 34 games over 15 days

  • Broadcast: Star Sports, JioHotstar, RugbyPass TV​People.com+3Wikipedia+3News9live+3

🏙️ The Franchises

The RPL will feature six teams representing major Indian cities:​

  1. Bengaluru Bravehearts

  2. Chennai Bulls

  3. Delhi Redz

  4. Hyderabad Heroes

  5. Kalinga Black Tigers

  6. Mumbai Dreamers​Wikipedia+3Wikipedia+3Chronicle+3

Each team comprises a mix of international stars, emerging talents, and local players, fostering a competitive and diverse environment.​Wikipedia

🌍 Global Talent Meets Local Passion

The RPL has attracted 30 marquee international players from rugby powerhouse nations, bringing global experience to the Indian stage. These players will be joined by top Indian rugby sevens athletes, selected through a rigorous auction process. Notably, Mohit Khatri, captain of the national rugby sevens team, was acquired for ₹4.5 lakh, highlighting the league's commitment to nurturing domestic talent.​Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia

📺 Broadcasting and Digital Engagement

To ensure widespread accessibility, matches will be broadcast live on Star Sports and streamed on JioHotstar and RugbyPass TV. This multi-platform approach aims to engage a broad audience, from traditional TV viewers to digital natives.​Wikipedia+1The Sun+1

🎮 Fantasy Sports Integration

In a bid to enhance fan engagement, Dream11, boasting 240 million users, will introduce a rugby fantasy sports category coinciding with the RPL. This integration is expected to boost viewership and deepen fan involvement.​Wikipedia

🏗️ Building the Rugby Ecosystem

The RPL is more than just a tournament; it's a strategic move to build a sustainable rugby ecosystem in India. By providing a platform for local players to compete alongside international stars, the league aims to elevate the standard of rugby and inspire a new generation of athletes.​

🎯 Aligning with National Sports Vision

The launch of the RPL aligns with India's broader sports ambitions. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has articulated a vision to position India among the top five sporting nations by 2047. Initiatives like the RPL are instrumental in diversifying India's sports portfolio and achieving this goal.​Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1Hindustan Times+2The Tribune+2Business & Finance News+2

🔗 Internal Links for Further Reading

The Rugby Premier League 2025 marks a significant milestone in India's sports journey, promising to transform the rugby landscape and inspire countless athletes across the nation.​Wikipedia 

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