The Khelo India University Games (KIUG) ended with Bharti Vidyapeeth and KIIT emerging as the victors of the Men and Women Rugby competitions respectively. Played from the 24th to 26th of May 2023 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, the tournaments featured Indian university players who had previously shown signs of talent in the sport.
In the Women’s category, KIIT schooled Mumbai University with a scoreline of 56-0. The Men’s category pitted KIIT against Bharti Vidyapeeth, with Bharti Vidyapeeth clinching the victory at 19-10. This entire event was made possible with the support of the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Sports Authority of India, and Rugby India.
Sandeep Mosamkar, Senior General Manager of Rugby India, expressed his enthusiasm about the support received from the governing body. He said, “The education and opportunities these players are receiving will be of great value for their future.” Captain of the KIIT women’s rugby team, Dumuni Marndi, further echoed Mosamkar’s sentiments. Marndi thanked Rugby India and the Uttar Pradesh government for providing top quality services, allowing for a comfortable stay throughout the event.
The event was also a great platform for upcoming talent to be noticed by Rugby India. President of Rugby India, C.K.Mosely, stated that Khelo India University Games presents an exceptional opportunity for the development of Indian youth in the sport.
Rugby India is the governing body responsible for the organization, promotion, and development of Rugby in India. They promote rugby at all levels and across all disciplines, firmly believing in the power of sport to promote nation-building and to address personal development. They are actively involved in the organization and growth of the sport, particularly through various national programmes and events.