Bihar to Host India-New Zealand Under-20 Rugby Series

International Rugby Comes to Rajgir

Bihar is set to host the India-New Zealand Under-20 Rugby Series at the Rajgir Sports Complex in Nalanda, running from October 23 to 28, 2026. This event is part of the '100 Years of Unity Through Sport' initiative, celebrating a century of sporting relations between the two nations.

Match Schedule and Format

The series features the men's and women's Under-20 teams from India and New Zealand. According to the Bihar Sports Department, the primary competition will take place on October 27, consisting of four rugby sevens matches:

• Two matches between the respective men’s and women’s national teams.
• Two mixed matches where players from both countries will integrate to form joint squads.

Focus on Development and Cultural Exchange

The New Zealand delegation includes 24 young Maori players from the men's 'Tama Toa' and women's 'Hine Toa' squads. In addition to competition, the program emphasizes joint training sessions to facilitate the sharing of techniques and cultural experiences. Seven athletes from Bihar have been selected for the Indian teams, including Bajrangi Kumar, Rohit Kumar, Alpana Kumari, Aarti Kumari, Beauty Kumari, Saloni Kumari, and Sagar Prakash.

Bihar State Sports Authority officials highlighted that the state is building on its reputation for hosting major rugby events, such as the 2025 Asia Rugby Emirates Under-20 Championship. Indian Rugby Football Union President Rahul Bose noted that the series provides a significant opportunity for Indian players to gain international experience. New Zealand delegates have also been involved in previous training workshops for Indian coaches, reflecting an ongoing collaborative partnership.