Patna: For the first time, Bihar will host the Asia Rugby U-20 Sevens Championship 2025, scheduled for August 9 and 10 in Rajgir. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today at the Patliputra Sports Complex between Rugby India and the Bihar State Sports Authority for the successful execution of this championship. Representing the Bihar government, Director-General and CEO of the Bihar State Sports Authority, Ravindran Shankaran, and Rugby India Secretary General, Gerald Prabhu, signed the MoU.
The signing event was attended by Ravindra Nath Chaudhary, Director and Secretary of the Bihar State Sports Authority; Ankush Arora, Chief Operating Officer of Rugby India; Pankaj Kumar Jyoti, Secretary of Bihar Rugby Association, along with rugby coaches and players.
Bihar’s Rising Status in Rugby
Ravindran Shankaran expressed his happiness and pride, stating that hosting the Asia Rugby U-20 Sevens Championship for the first time is a great honor for Bihar. He thanked Rugby India for this opportunity. He highlighted Bihar’s consistent growth in rugby, with its players making rapid progress at the national level.
Recently, Bihar’s women’s team won a silver medal in the National Games, and in the recently concluded School Games, both boys’ and girls’ teams won championships across junior, sub-junior, and senior categories. Over the last three years, Bihar’s boys’ and girls’ rugby teams have won 21 gold and 5 silver medals in National School Games, National Games, and Senior Rugby Championships. This showcases the growing interest and passion for rugby among Bihar’s athletes.
Bihar’s Focus on International Sports Events
Bihar has been hosting several international sporting events in recent years. Recently, an MoU was signed for hosting the Sepak Takraw World Cup, scheduled for March 20-25 in Patna. Additionally, the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup and Hero Asia Cup Hockey will be hosted in Rajgir. The Khelo India Youth Games are also set to take place in May. With continuous government support, Bihar has successfully strengthened its position in the international sports arena.
Rugby India’s Perspective
Rugby India Secretary General Gerald Prabhu acknowledged Bihar’s growing reputation in sports and its ability to successfully host international events. He stated that this was a key factor in selecting Bihar as the host for this championship. He also praised Bihar’s grassroots training model, which identifies young talent and prepares them for national and international-level competitions—a remarkable and inspiring approach for other states.
Asia Rugby U-20 Sevens Championship 2025 – Key Highlights
- The championship will be held on August 9-10, 2025, in Rajgir.
- 8 men’s and 8 women’s teams will participate.
- Top Asian rugby nations expected to compete include Hong Kong China, Thailand, Malaysia, Chinese Taipei, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, Kyrgyzstan, and Nepal.
- In Asia, a total of 32 countries play rugby, but only the top 8 ranked teams qualify for this championship.
This event marks a significant milestone for Bihar in international sports, and its successful execution is expected to further boost the state’s recognition in the global sporting community.
