Maharashtra's Young Rugby Aces Triumph at National Championships

The Sub Junior Girls team from Maharashtra triumphed at the 9th Sub Junior National Rugby Sevens Championships, defeating Bihar 17-5 in the finals. With this victory, the team highlights the introduction of contact rugby for U15 players, marking a milestone in Indian Rugby's development efforts.

The Maharashtra Sub Junior Girls' team exhibited remarkable skill and determination to claim victory over the seasoned team from Bihar at the 9th Sub Junior National Rugby Sevens Championships 2024, held in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The decisive 17-5 victory, announced by Rugby India, underscored Maharashtra's growing prowess in the sport.

A standout performer was Shravani Patil, who emerged as the tournament's top scorer with 14 tries. Her exceptional display signals the rising tide of new talent eager to secure positions on India's national women's rugby team, alongside notable players such as Komal Kumari from Bihar, Niha from Kerala, and Chahat from Chandigarh.

This year's championship also marked the transition from touch to contact rugby in the sub-junior category (U15), aligning with the federation's strategic vision to bolster India’s national age-grade teams for tougher international competition. With 21 teams competing over two days, the event spotlighted why these young athletes, particularly from Maharashtra, will be key contenders for future senior teams. Meanwhile, the U/15 boys category is set for February 2025, with Bihar as the anticipated front-runners.