India’s Under-20 women’s rugby team registered an impressive 17-0 victory over New Zealand at the Rajgir Sports Complex in Bihar, marking a memorable moment for Indian rugby during a series celebrating 100 years of sporting relations between the two countries.
The Indian women dominated the contest with effective teamwork, attacking intent and disciplined defence, preventing New Zealand from scoring throughout the match. The victory also highlighted the growing potential of women’s rugby in India against a nation with a strong rugby tradition.
According to a report by Gujarat Samachar, India reportedly scored 12 points in the first half and maintained its advantage until the final whistle. The team’s defensive efforts proved crucial as New Zealand struggled to break through, while India continued to put pressure on its opponents. The player wearing jersey number 15 emerged as India’s leading scorer.
In the men’s category, New Zealand’s Under-20 team secured a 32-0 win over India. The visitors dominated with their attacking play and defensive strength, scoring six tries while keeping the Indian side scoreless, as reported by Gujarat Samachar.
Despite the defeat, the match offered India’s young players valuable international experience against a well-established rugby nation.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary inaugurated the series, which brought together the men’s and women’s teams from both countries. The event also featured mixed-team exhibition matches, with Indian and New Zealand players sharing the field to celebrate the centenary of sporting relations.
India’s women’s victory stood out as a significant highlight for the hosts, offering encouragement for the development of women’s rugby in the country. The series also provided an opportunity to strengthen sporting ties and promote rugby among young athletes in India.