Chennai Bulls and Delhi Redz Set for Thrilling Rugby Premier League Final

Excitement Builds for the RPL Grand Finale

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 29: After two weeks filled with exhilarating action, fierce tackles, and impressive tries, the inaugural Rugby Premier League (RPL) culminates in a grand finale featuring the Chennai Bulls against the Delhi Redz this Sunday.

The Chennai Bulls showcased their strength with a commanding 31-12 victory over the Bengaluru Bravehearts in the semi-finals. In contrast, the Delhi Redz faced a tougher challenge, narrowly defeating the top-ranked Hyderabad Heroes 14-7, thanks to a last-minute try by Patrick Odongo, as reported by an RPL press release.

Currently, the Chennai Bulls are in exceptional form, with standout performances from players like Terry Kennedy, Joseva Talacolo, and Va'aufauese Apelu-Maliko. Indian talents such as Aryan Dixit, Muhammad Jasim EP, and Shahnawaz Ahmed have also made significant contributions. Statistically, the Bulls rank second in the league for tries, conversions, points scored, and tackles made, with totals of 37, 25, 235, and 181, respectively.

The Delhi Redz have experienced a remarkable journey in the RPL. Despite finishing fourth in the league with three wins, two draws, and five losses, they managed to defeat the tournament's strongest team in their last match to secure a place in the final. Key players for the Redz include Matias Osadczuk, Matteo Graziano, Patrick Odongo, and Jordon Conroy.

Indian players like Rajdeep Saha, Deepak Punia, and Sunil Chawan have also had a notable season. The Redz aim to pull off another upset in the final, facing a formidable challenge from the Chennai Bulls, who have already triumphed over them twice in the tournament.

As the final approaches, Chennai Bulls' marquee player Terry Kennedy expressed, "Our goal from the beginning was to reach the final and hopefully secure a win tomorrow. Our semi-final performance was likely our best of the tournament, and we take great pride in it."

He added, "Earlier, we were trying to force plays, but now we’re focusing on the basics, controlling the ball and the game's tempo. This approach has worked well in recent matches. While our accuracy has improved, we need to enhance our discipline on the field, which will be our focus in the final."

In assessing their opponents, Delhi Redz captain Matias Osadczuk stated, "When I look at the Chennai Bulls, I see aggressive and skilled international players. We need to maintain possession throughout the game and play effectively from our defense. It's crucial to control the game and apply pressure while staying focused on players like Apelu, Terry Kennedy, and other key players."

Before the final, a match for the second runner-up between the Bengaluru Bravehearts and Hyderabad Heroes is scheduled for 7:45 PM IST.

RPL Final Schedule on June 29: - 2nd Runner-Up Match: Bengaluru Bravehearts vs. Hyderabad Heroes – 7:45 PM - Final: Chennai Bulls vs. Delhi Redz – 8:25 PM.