Delhi Redz Crowned Champions After Defeating Chennai Bulls in Rugby Premier League

Hyderabad, June 24: In an exciting finale of the Rugby Premier League (RPL) Season 2, the Delhi Redz women’s team triumphed over the Chennai Bulls with a score of 22-10. The victorious team received a prize of ₹25 lakh, while the runners-up were awarded ₹15 lakh. This inaugural women’s competition featured 48 players, including 24 international stars from 10 countries.

The match took place at the Gachibowli-based Ganti Mohana Chandra Balyogi Athletic Stadium. Delhi Redz started strong, taking control of the ball and scoring through Lavena Kawuru on the left wing. The Chennai Bulls struggled to penetrate the Redz’s aggressive defense, but Muskaan Pipploda managed to score in the second quarter.

Eden Kilgore quickly responded, restoring Delhi’s lead. The Bulls dominated possession for most of the third quarter but failed to convert their pressure into points. In the final quarter, Delhi regained control; Silika Kalo scored on the right wing, followed by another try from Isadora Lopes. Although Sheila Chajira scored for the Bulls, the Redz secured a comfortable victory.

In the men’s competition, the Hyderabad Heroes defeated the Delhi Redz 26-17. Diego Ardao opened the scoring with an impressive move. Patrick O’Dongo attempted to respond for Delhi but had to leave the field due to injury, allowing Elias Hancock to equalize.

Before halftime, Taitaifono Tavita restored the Heroes’ lead. After the break, Raovama Seruvakula extended the lead with a kick. Wolfram Hacker added another try, giving Hyderabad control of the match. Late scores from Lenox Veej and Alasio Nadua brought Delhi back into contention, but the Heroes ultimately claimed victory.

In another match, the Bengaluru Bravehearts ended the unbeaten streak of the Mumbai Dreamers. The Bravehearts dominated from the start, with Jain Davids and Akuila Rokolisoa giving them an early lead. Shilton Van Vick, Nagarohei McGarvey, Ganesh Majhi, and Magomedrasul Magomedov added more tries, while Ben Lasike and Guillaume Bouche scored for the Dreamers. Ultimately, the Bravehearts won decisively with a score of 41-12.

The Chennai Bulls also secured a victory over the Kolkata Banga Tigers. They took an early lead through Philip Souturaga and strengthened it in the second quarter with a try from Toulai Panoa. Despite the Tigers’ attempts to rally, highlighted by a score from Ricardo Duarte, it wasn’t enough, and the Bulls won 12-5.