Bhubaneswar Hosts Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens 2026 Trophy Unveiling

Bhubaneswar has unveiled the trophy for the Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens 2026, an international rugby tournament featuring 17 teams from 10 nations. Scheduled for November 14-15 at Kalinga Stadium, the event marks the return of international rugby to Odisha after eight years. Officials express excitement about the tournament's potential to inspire young athletes and enhance India's rugby profile. With teams from across Asia participating, this championship promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and competition.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 13, 2026, 22:13 IST

Bhubaneswar Unveils Trophy for Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens 2026

Bhubaneswar, Odisha (India) - On November 13, the trophy for the Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens 2026 was officially unveiled by Suryabanshi Suraj, the Sports Minister of Odisha. This event precedes the two-day international tournament set to take place on November 14-15 at Kalinga Stadium. The competition will feature 17 teams from 10 different nations in Asia, with 10 teams participating in the men's category and seven in the women's category. The nations involved include India, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong China, Thailand, Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, Chinese Taipei, Nepal, and Jordan, as stated in a press release from the organizing committee.

Official Statements

Suryabanshi Suraj expressed, "Odisha is thrilled to host the Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens 2026 in Bhubaneswar. Our ongoing investment in sports infrastructure and our commitment to hosting significant events demonstrate our goal to create opportunities for athletes at all levels. We are dedicated to discovering talent at the grassroots level, nurturing young athletes, and providing them with the necessary training and support to excel both nationally and internationally. We extend a warm welcome to all teams and officials participating in this championship and wish them an exciting and memorable experience."

Gerald Prabhu, a member of the Executive Committee of Asia Rugby and Secretary General of Rugby India, remarked, "Hosting events like the Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens is crucial for the growth of rugby in India. It offers high-quality competition on home soil, allowing Indian players to challenge themselves against formidable international teams and encouraging more youth to engage in the sport. With international rugby returning to Odisha after eight years, this championship also serves as a chance to enhance the state's growing connection with rugby. We appreciate the support from the Government of Odisha, the Department of Sports & Youth Services, Asia Rugby, and the Odisha Rugby Football Association in making this event a reality."

Benjamin van Rooyen, CEO of Asia Rugby, stated, "India is progressively establishing itself as an emerging rugby nation in Asia, with increasing participation, development initiatives, and a stronger presence on the international stage. Hosting the Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens 2026 further solidifies this advancement and provides a vital platform for the next generation of Indian players to compete against the best age-grade teams in the region. Odisha, with its excellent sports facilities and experience in hosting major international events, is an ideal location for this competition. Asia Rugby sincerely appreciates the efforts of Rugby India and the support from the Government of Odisha and all involved stakeholders in making this event possible."

Competition Format and Pools

The men's tournament consists of 10 teams divided into two pools, while the women's tournament includes seven teams across two pools.

Men's Competition

Group A: Hong Kong China, India, Uzbekistan, Chinese Taipei, and Nepal. Group B: Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and Jordan.

Women's Competition

Group C: Hong Kong China, Malaysia, and Thailand. Group D: India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Nepal.

International Rugby Returns to Odisha

The Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens 2026 signifies the return of international rugby to Bhubaneswar after an eight-year hiatus, with the last event held in 2018. Odisha has been enhancing its rugby association by hosting several national-level competitions in 2026, including the Sub-Junior National Rugby Sevens Championship, the National Rugby 15s Championship, and the ASMITA National League. The state has also contributed five players to India's women's rugby team for the Asian Games.

This championship follows India's hosting of the India-New Zealand U20 Rugby Series in Rajgir, Bihar, in October 2026, marking the country's second consecutive international U20 rugby event. With the trophy unveiled and final arrangements underway, Bhubaneswar is prepared to welcome teams from across Asia for two days of thrilling international rugby at the renowned Kalinga Stadium on November 14 and 15.