Goa Khabar : Rugby enthusiasts were treated to an electrifying weekend as the Crocotryles Rugby Foundation (CRF) hosted the inaugural Goa Rugby 7s at Don Bosco College of Engineering, Fatorda, on November 23-24, 2024.
The event showcased some of the finest rugby talent from across India, featuring top-tier teams including Crocotryles Rugby Foundation (Goa), Delhi Hurricanes, Bangalore Rugby Club, CSA Kerala, Future Hope Harlequins (West Bengal), Dragons Rugby Club (Goa), and Chennai Cubs. Teams competed fiercely in Men’s Contact, Women’s Contact, and Mixed Touch categories, delivering unforgettable moments of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship.
Delhi Hurricanes Dominate the Field
Delhi Hurricanes emerged as the standout team, clinching victories across all three categories, thanks in part to their roster of star players.
The Men’s Contact team featured Indian national rugby icons like Mohit Khatri, Deepak Punia, and Prince Khatri, whose exceptional athleticism and teamwork made a significant impact on the tournament. In the Women’s Contact category, the Hurricanes were led by standout national players Sandhya Rai and Sheetal Sharma, who dazzled spectators with their skill and determination.
The Mixed Touch final saw Delhi Hurricanes edge out the Chennai Cubs with a narrow 15-10 victory. The Women’s Contact final was a masterclass in dominance as the Hurricanes overwhelmed the Crocotryles Rugby Foundation team with a commanding 29-0 win. The tournament’s highlight came in the Men’s Contact final, where Delhi Hurricanes faced Future Hope Harlequins in a nail-biting clash, ultimately prevailing 19-14.
Final Results:
- Men’s Contact: 1st: Delhi Hurricanes 2nd: Future Hope Harlequins 3rd: Bangalore Rugby Club
- Women’s Contact: 1st: Delhi Hurricanes 2nd: Crocotryles Rugby Foundation 3rd: Dragons Rugby Club
- Mixed Touch: 1st: Delhi Hurricanes 2nd: Chennai Cubs 3rd: Crocotryles Rugby Foundation
Event Highlights
The tournament was graced by Chief Guest Mr. Vijai Sardesai, MLA of Fatorda, and Mr. Gavin Dias, General Manager of GTDC. Their support played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this landmark event, setting the stage for what promises to be an annual celebration of rugby excellence in Goa.
Brandan Crasto, President of the Crocotryles Rugby Foundation, expressed gratitude to all teams, participants, and supporters, stating: “The response to the first-ever Goa Rugby 7s has been incredible. It’s a testament to the growing love for rugby in India and the strength of our community. We’re already planning a bigger and better event for next year.”
