Published: June 28, 2026 at 9:47 pm
Hyderabad Heroes on Sunday were crowned champions of the HSBC Rugby Premier League powered by Avid Season 2 after defeating Mumbai Dreamers by 41-17 in a thrilling final at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad.
Hyderabad Heroes receive the trophy from Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy
Following an exciting season of world-class rugby action, Hyderabad Heroes lifted the championship trophy and received the winner’s prize of Rs 45 lakh, while Mumbai Dreamers finished runners-up and claimed Rs 25 lakh. Bengaluru Bravehearts secured third place and received prize money of Rs. 15 lakh.
https://x.com/RPLIndia/status/2071171766379258136?s=20
Hyderabad Heroes produced a clinical performance in the final to overcome Mumbai Dreamers by 41-17 and claim the HSBC Rugby Premier League Season 2 title.
Heroes produce a clinical show
The Dreamers dominated early possession but were unable to convert it into points as Hyderabad’s disciplined defence forced crucial turnovers. The Heroes capitalised through swift counter-attacks, with Francisco Cosculluela’s steal setting up Taitaifono Tavita before Manuel Moreno won possession to create an easy finish for Shivam Shukla. Maurice Longbottom then added a drop goal to give Hyderabad complete control heading into the break.
Heroes Kevin Wekesa in action against Mumbai Dreamers. Pics: Adimazes
The Heroes maintained their relentless tempo after half-time, with Tavita again creating space on the left for Diego Ardao to score. Mumbai finally found a breakthrough as quicker ball movement released Ethan McFarland, but Hyderabad continued to punish turnovers, with Ardao grabbing his second before Kevin Wekesa finished a flowing move out wide. Terio Tamani extended the advantage early in the final quarter, while James Turner pulled one back for the Dreamers before setting up Sukumar Hembrom late on. However, Hyderabad’s clinical finishing and defensive intensity ensured they closed out a commanding victory.
Bravehearts down Bulls to finish third
Meanwhile, Bengaluru Bravehearts secured third place after defeating Chennai Bulls 22-19 in an entertaining play-off encounter.
Bengaluru Bravehearts’ Akuila Rokolisoa in action against Chennai Bulls
The Bulls made the brighter start as Marika Koroibete intercepted a loose pass and broke clear before setting up Jugal Majhi for the opening try. Bengaluru responded with composure, as Shilton Wyk exploited a gap in the defence before sustained territorial pressure in the second quarter allowed Jonas Mikalcius and Ganesh Majhi to strike from either wing and build a healthy advantage. Chennai fought back after the restart, with Marcus Kershaw finishing from close range before Filipe Sauturaga pounced on an intercepted throw to hand the Bulls the lead. However, the Bravehearts patiently worked the ball wide in the closing stages, where Akuila Rokolisoa crossed over to snatch a dramatic victory.
Bigger and better RPL this season
Organised by GMR Sports in partnership with Rugby India, the second season of the league concluded in the presence of Telangana chief minister Anumula Revanth Reddy, Kiran Kumar Grandhi, corporate chairman, GMR Group, Tollywood actor Chiranjeevi, badminton act P V Sindhu, Bollywood actor Mrunal Thakur, G B S Raju, chairman, GMR Airports Ltd, and Rahul Bose, president, Rugby India and League Commissioner of the Rugby Premier League.
“The HSBC RPL 2026 Powered by Avid, has been bigger and better than the previous year’s league, in every way: larger crowds, even more world class players, an RPL Women’s league, greater fan engagement both online and offline, more sponsorship, and, we believe, much larger viewing numbers on broadcast. What more could we ask for? Thank you to each and every Indian who has discovered their love for this incredibly exciting sport,” said Rahul Bose.
“The successful conclusion of the second season of the HSBC Rugby Premier League powered by Avid is another important step in our long-term vision of developing new sporting ecosystems in India. At GMR Sports, we believe that world-class leagues have the power to transform the sporting landscape by inspiring young talent, strengthening grassroots development and creating aspirational platforms for athletes. The overwhelming response from fans this season, coupled with the successful launch of the women’s competition, reinforces our belief that rugby has tremendous potential to become one of India’s fastest-growing sports,” said Sujoy Ganguly, chief marketing officer, GMR Sports.
