April 30, 2025 – Guwahati, Assam: West Bengal clinched their maiden national title at the 12th Senior National Men’s Rugby Sevens Championship, edging out reigning champions Haryana 14-12 in a thrilling final at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati. Held from April 27-28, the championship featured 26 teams from across the country and showcased the growing depth, skill, and competitiveness of men’s rugby in India.
West Bengal’s campaign was defined by tactical discipline, sharp execution, and collective unity. In a tense and high-quality final, they held their composure under immense pressure, capitalizing on key opportunities and delivering a resilient defensive performance. The narrow two-point victory marks a historic moment for the team and a significant milestone for the state’s emerging rugby ecosystem.
Haryana, the defending champions and pre-tournament favourites, delivered a strong performance throughout the tournament. Known for their physicality, structure, and intensity, they powered through to the final with characteristic determination. Although they narrowly missed retaining the title, Haryana once again affirmed their stature as one of India’s elite rugby teams.
In the third-place playoff, Bihar secured the bronze medal with a commanding 17–0 win over Rajasthan. Bihar impressed with dynamic attacking phases and solid defence, underlining their consistent upward trajectory in national rugby. Rajasthan, meanwhile, showed commendable grit throughout the tournament and continue to be a team to watch in the years ahead.
The championship was jointly organized by the Indian Rugby Football Union (IRFU) and the Rugby Association of Assam, with support from the Sports Authority of India. The event concluded with an official prize distribution ceremony attended by dignitaries, coaches, players, and key members of the rugby community.
Beyond the results, the championship stood as a celebration of determination, athleticism, and the growing footprint of rugby in India. West Bengal’s historic triumph, coupled with the strong showings by Haryana and Bihar, reflects the evolving competitiveness of the sport; and the inspiring stories that continue to fuel its rise across states and communities nationwide.