Kenya Sevens talisman Kevin Wekesa is set to feature in the inaugural Rugby Premier League (RPL) in India, becoming the second Shujaa star to secure a place in the groundbreaking franchise competition running from June 15 to 29.
Wekesa, a dynamic forward from Kabras RFC, will represent the Hyderabad Heroes, coached by former New Zealand Sevens legend DJ Forbes. His inclusion follows that of Patrick Odongo, who will line up for the Delhi Redz under the guidance of Tomasi Cama, another Sevens great.
“It’s an honour to play in a tournament of this magnitude, alongside some of the best players in the world. I’m relishing the battle,” said Wekesa.
The Rugby Premier League is poised to make history as the world’s first franchise-based Sevens competition, attracting a star-studded cast of 30 marquee internationals. Notable names include Perry Baker (USA), Rosko Specman (South Africa), and Scott Curry (New Zealand), who is coming out of retirement to feature in the event.
The tournament has garnered support from World Rugby and strategically fits within a 15-day window where no other international Sevens action is scheduled, ensuring full participation from global stars.
Players from Argentina, South Africa, Great Britain, Spain, USA, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and Ireland are expected to light up the event, alongside India’s top rugby talent.
The six city-based franchises are:
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Bengaluru Bravehearts
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Chennai Bulls
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Delhi Redz
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Hyderabad Heroes
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Kalinga Black Tigers
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Mumbai Dreamers
“This is a league that’s been six years in the making, but we wanted to do everything right. The first extraordinary development came thanks to World Rugby, who gave a 15-day window in which no international rugby Sevens would be played anywhere in the world,” said Rahul Bose, President of Rugby India.
With global attention turning toward India’s newest sporting frontier, Wekesa’s participation not only elevates his profile but also reaffirms Kenya’s growing influence on the world Sevens stage.
