Sports

Walsh Backs RPL to Enhance India’s Olympic Rugby Aspirations: Indian Players Showcase Exceptional Skills

Published

7 months ago

June 12, 2025

Tim Walsh, the head coach of the Mumbai Dreamers, firmly believes in the transformative potential of the Rugby Premier League (RPL). A former Australian player who famously guided the Australian women’s rugby sevens team to a gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, he is confident that the RPL’s professional structure and opportunities will elevate Indian rugby to new heights.

Reflecting on his time with the Mumbai Dreamers, Walsh stated, “Our experience has been outstanding so far. The environment is welcoming and managed exceptionally well. The training facilities are top-notch, allowing us to prepare effectively for upcoming matches.”

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The RPL, the first franchise tournament for Rugby Sevens in India, will kick off on June 15 in Mumbai.

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Discussing the league’s innovative format, Walsh noted that it significantly aids player development.

“We’re sharing knowledge and experiences, which fosters growth. Everyone is set to evolve as a player, coach, and individual. Being part of this is truly a privilege.”

When asked about the Indian talent in his squad, Walsh praised their ability to adapt to the team dynamics.

“The Indian players have integrated exceptionally well. They possess significant skill and talent. Now, it’s our responsibility to help them unlock their full potential.”

Walsh also emphasized the long-term benefits of the RPL for India’s Olympic aspirations, saying, “I hope the impact will be considerable. With visionary leaders and strong sponsors backing the tournament, there’s immense potential for India to reach the Olympics.”

When asked what excited him the most, Walsh shared a heartfelt coach’s perspective.

“What I cherish about coaching is the opportunity to bring people together and see them enjoy themselves. When they are having fun, they perform better. We are seeking a great challenge, high energy, and hopefully, a victory.”

The Rugby Premier League represents a pivotal moment in India’s rugby development, merging international expertise with local talent to create not just franchises but a pathway toward global relevance.

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Sports

Storm in the First Over: RCB Create New WPL Record

Published

2 days ago

January 17, 2026

Namma Kudla

Royal Challengers Bengaluru created history in the Women’s Premier League by scoring the highest number of runs in the first over of a match. RCB scored a massive 23 runs in the opening over, setting a new WPL record.

This historic moment took place during the match against Gujarat Giants at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Gujarat Giants bowler Renuka Singh Thakur conceded 23 runs in the first over, making it the most expensive opening over in WPL history.

Renuka began the over with a wide delivery. The ball went past the wicketkeeper and crossed the boundary, resulting in five runs. RCB batter Grace Harris then took charge of the over. She smashed four consecutive boundaries, putting the Gujarat Giants under pressure.

During the over, Renuka Singh bowled two more wides, adding extra runs to the total. On the final delivery of the over, Grace Harris struck another boundary. This completed a dramatic and record-breaking first over for RCB.

With this, Renuka Singh Thakur recorded the most expensive first over ever bowled in the Women’s Premier League. The previous record was held by Tanuja Kanwar. She had conceded 21 runs in the first over while playing for Gujarat Giants against Mumbai Indians in the 2023 season.

In the same match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru batted first and put up a strong total. RCB scored 182 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs. The team showed aggressive batting throughout the innings.

Gujarat Giants chased the target but failed to keep up with the required run rate. They were bowled out for 150 runs in 18.5 overs. As a result, Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the match by 32 runs.

This victory strengthened RCB’s position in the tournament and added a historic achievement to the Women’s Premier League records.

Sports

Historic Test Debut in Guwahati as South Africa Reach 247/6 on Day 1

Published

2 months ago

November 23, 2025

Namma Kudla

On the first day of the second Test between India and South Africa at Barsapara Stadium, South Africa made a strong start, reaching 247 for 6 at stumps.The venue, Barsapara Cricket Stadium, hosted its very first Test match in history — making the day special for Guwahati and cricket in Assam.

South African skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat first.Their openers, Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35), gave a solid start with a partnership of 82 runs.Later, Tristan Stubbs added 49 before getting out, while Bavuma made 41.

India fought back well thanks to a strong performance by spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He picked up 3 wickets and gave away only 48 runs in 17 overs.Ravindra Jadeja also chipped in with an important wicket, dismissing Bavuma. In the final over before stumps, Mohammed Siraj struck, getting Tony de Zorzi out.At the end of play, Senuran Muthusamy was unbeaten on 25, and Kyle Verreynne was 1 not out.

The light became a concern late in the day. As visibility dropped, play was stopped, and light issues forced the umpires to call it a day early.Overall, India ended Day 1 with a degree of satisfaction. The bowling attack showed discipline, especially through their spinners, and they managed to check the South African momentum.

Sports

India A Post 297/4 as Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes 144 Off 42 Balls

Published

2 months ago

November 14, 2025

Namma Kudla

India A began their Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 campaign with a huge total against the UAE in Doha. Captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and chose to bat first. Vaibhav Suryavanshi then produced a stunning innings. He scored 144 runs from just 42 balls. His knock included 11 fours and 15 sixes.

Suryavanshi reached his fifty in 17 balls. He completed his century in only 32 balls. He added 163 runs for the second wicket with Naman Dhir, who made 34. Jitesh Sharma also played a quick innings and scored a fast fifty.

India A finished at 297 for 4 in 20 overs. The team now holds a strong position in the match.