Hosts India made a commanding start to the Asia Rugby Emirates U20 Sevens 2026 on Saturday, as both the U-20 men’s and women’s teams signed off Day 1 with victories at Kalinga Stadium.
The tournament, organised by Asia Rugby with Rugby India as host and Emirates as title partner, brings together 17 age-group teams from across the continent for two days of sevens action. It marks the second consecutive year the championship has been staged in India after the 2025 edition in Rajgir, Bihar, where the Indian women claimed bronze.
In the men’s competition, India closed their opening day in style with a dominant 52-0 win over Nepal in the group stage. Captain Pushpender led from the front with a hat-trick of tries, underlining the hosts’ intent in a Pool A that also includes defending champions Hong Kong China, Uzbekistan and Chinese Taipei. Earlier moments of the day featured sharp attacking play, including a well-worked score finished by the captain after an offload from Bharat Kisan.
The women’s team matched the momentum. After an opening victory, they produced another strong performance against Singapore, with Khushi scoring a hat-trick. The result keeps India firmly in contention in a pool that also includes Sri Lanka. Last year in Rajgir the same age-group side finished third; the early form in Bhubaneswar suggests they are aiming higher on home soil.
Rugby India highlighted the double success, noting that both squads “sign off with wins today” and confirming the action resumes on Sunday at 9 AM IST. Matches are being streamed live on Asia Rugby’s YouTube channel.
The return of international rugby to Odisha — Kalinga Stadium previously hosted an Asia Rugby U18 Girls’ Sevens event eight years ago — has added extra local interest. With both Indian sides already on the board, Sunday’s knockout and placement matches will determine how far the hosts can progress. Finals are scheduled for late afternoon, with the women’s decider followed by the men’s.
For a sport still growing in India, a strong home showing at the U20 level provides valuable high-performance exposure and a platform for the next generation of players. Day 1 has already delivered statement results; Day 2 will decide whether the hosts can turn that early promise into medals.
