Until recently, Rugby in India remained on the fringes of mainstream sports conversations. But over the past year, this high-impact game has quietly built a new fan base - from college athletes to streaming viewers. The turning point? A growing awareness of the different Rugby Union types, the launch of India’s own professional league, and rising institutional support from leading conglomerates like GMR Sports.
If you have ever been intrigued by the sport but confused about its rules, this is your quick, clear guide. And if you’re wondering why GMR Group is betting big on Rugby, read on because the story is just getting started.
Rugby 15s vs 7s: What You Need to Know
The most common question for new fans is: What is the difference between Rugby 15s and 7s? Here is a simplified breakdown of the Rugby Union types and how they play out on the field:
Sevens vs Fifteens Rules – A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Rugby 15s | Rugby 7s |
| Players per team | 15 | 7 |
| Match duration | 80 minutes | 14 minutes |
| Playing style | Strategic, physical, slower-paced | Fast, high-scoring, explosive |
| Scrum size | 8 players | 3 players |
| Conversion method | Place kick | Drop kick within 30 seconds |
| Specialization | Defined player roles | All-round athleticism |
Rugby formats explained simply: the 15s game is like a chess match of brute strength and tactics, while 7s Rugby is a sprint - quick, thrilling, and perfect for modern viewers.
The GMR Group and the Rugby Revolution
In a landmark move, GMR Group, through its sports vertical GMR Sports, is fuelling the sport’s rise in India by launching the Rugby Premier League (RPL) - the world’s first franchise-based Rugby 7s tournament.
Co-created with Rugby India, the RPL is more than a tournament. It is a ten-year vision to build a sustainable, televised Rugby ecosystem for Indian players, fans, and future athletes.
What Makes the RPL a Game-Changer?
- 6 City-Based Franchises: Mumbai Dreamers, Bengaluru Bravehearts, Chennai Bulls, Hyderabad Heroes, Delhi Redz, and Kalinga Black Tigers
- Talent Mix: Combines marquee internationals with Indian players—30 winners from a 71-strong auction pool, plus standout athletes from around the globe
- Inaugural Season: Held in Mumbai from June 15 to 29, 2025, with 34 matches live on Star Sports and JioHotstar
Understanding the difference in Rugby formats is just step one. The real impact lies in how GMR Group is reimagining the game’s future - on Indian soil, with Indian talent.
Through grassroots efforts, global partnerships, and a vision backed by infrastructure, GMR Sports is turning a once-niche sport into the next big movement.