Srinagar, September 11, 2025 – The 17th UT Level Jammu & Kashmir Rugby 7s Championship 2025 concluded with electrifying energy at the Synthetic Rugby Field, Polo Ground, Srinagar, after two action-packed days on September 8 and 9. Organized by the J&K Rugby Association in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council, the tournament drew around 40 teams from across the Union Territory, showcasing the growing rugby craze in Kashmir. The event highlighted exceptional teamwork, athletic skill, and sporting spirit, cementing rugby’s rising popularity among the region’s youth.The championship featured intense competition in two main categories: Senior Men and Under Boys. In the Senior Men’s category, Srinagar clinched the Gold Medal, with Bandipora securing Silver and Kupwara and Baramulla sharing Bronze.
In the Under Boys category, Bandipora claimed Gold, followed by Kupwara with Silver, and Baramulla and Poonch jointly earning Bronze. The matches were marked by high-energy performances, with players delivering powerful tackles, swift sprints, and thrilling tries, captivating spectators and fueling grassroots rugby enthusiasm.The closing ceremony, presided over by Mohammad Shafi Dar, Secretary of the J&K Rugby Association, celebrated the athletes’ resilience and determination. Dar distributed trophies and medals, praising the participants for their commitment to elevating rugby in Jammu & Kashmir.
“This championship reflects the sport’s growing stature and the potential of our youth to shine on national and international stages,” he said, highlighting the role of such events in fostering discipline and camaraderie.The tournament’s success builds on the momentum of recent rugby events in the region, including the District Srinagar Rugby 7s Championship held earlier in September, where Srinagar Pink and Srinagar Lions won Goldin the Senior Women’s and Men’s categories, respectively. Organized with similar zeal by the Srinagar Rugby Association, these events underscore the region’s emergence as a rugby hub, driven by the J&K Sports Council’s support and community enthusiasm.Rugby’s appeal in Kashmir lies in its ability to instill teamwork, endurance, and sportsmanship, resonating with the region’s youth.
The championship not only showcased athletic talent but also highlighted the potential for rugby to unite communities and inspire future generations. As the rugby fever continues to spread, organizers and stakeholders are already planning bigger tournaments to nurture this dynamic contact sport at the grassroots level.
