Hyderabad Heroes players celebrate after winning Season 2 of the Rugby Premier League. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Hyderabad Heroes was crowned champion of the HSBC Rugby Premier League powered by Avid Season 2 after defeating Mumbai Dreamers 41-17 in the final at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad on Sunday.

The Heroes produced a clinical performance in the title clash, absorbing early pressure from Mumbai before taking control through turnovers and quick counter-attacks.

Hyderabad lifted the championship trophy and received Rs. 45 lakh as winner’s prize money, while Mumbai Dreamers finished runner-up and took home Rs. 25 lakh. Bengaluru Bravehearts, which beat Chennai Bulls 22-19 in the third-place playoff, received Rs. 15 lakh.

The Dreamers enjoyed early possession but could not turn it into points as Hyderabad’s disciplined defence forced crucial mistakes. Francisco Cosculluela’s steal helped set 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 firm control going into the break.

ALSO READ: Amandeep Kaur’s leap of faith: From javelin to Indian rugby’s rising star

The Heroes kept the tempo high after half-time, with Tavita creating space on the left for Diego Ardao to score. Mumbai found a response through Ethan McFarland, but Hyderabad continued to punish turnovers. Ardao scored his second, Kevin Wekesa finished a flowing move out wide, and Terio Tamani extended the lead early in the final quarter.

James Turner pulled one back for the Dreamers and later set up Sukumar Hembrom, but Hyderabad’s finishing and defensive intensity ensured a commanding victory.

The second season also marked the successful launch of the women’s competition, another step in the league’s attempt to build rugby’s presence in India.

Published on Jun 28, 2026