TIGERS UNITED

France completed a dramatic redemption story in Bordeaux, capturing the HSBC SVNS season finale with a commanding 14-5 victory over New Zealand at Stade Atlantique. Once staring at relegation to SVNS 2 after a pool-stage defeat to the same opponents, Les Bleus mounted a remarkable comeback through the knockout rounds, lifting their home crowd with relentless intensity. In a tense final, New Zealand struck first before France responded through Celian Pouzelgues , who overcame a yellow card setback to become the match’s decisive figure. Despite having one try ruled out by TMO review, he sealed victory in the final minute with a brilliant break that sent the stadium into chaos. Earlier, France had stunned world champions South Africa 21-12 in a high-tempo semi-final that electrified the home supporters. Captain Paulin Riva praised the team’s resilience, highlighting the challenge of competing against elite opposition and the determination to remain among the world’s best. In the thi...

Photo by The Papare The Hong Kong China rugby team broke Sri Lankan hearts with an 80th minute try to escape with a dramatic 15-14 victory in the Asia Rugby Championship at the Racecourse Ground in Colombo on Sunday. For a moment, history was within Sri Lanka ’s reach. The home side were only seconds away from recording their first ever victory over Hong Kong in the championship. But the defending champions showed incredible composure when it mattered most. The opening half was tense and physical. Sri Lanka defended bravely and frustrated Hong Kong throughout the half. The visitors could only manage a narrow 3-0 lead at halftime after Dylan McCann kicked a penalty. The match came alive after the break. Five minutes into the second half, Glenn Hui scored Hong Kong’s first try. McCann added the conversion to extend the lead to 10-0. Sri Lanka responded immediately. Just three minutes later, Viduna Amanath crossed the line to ignite the home crowd. Gamunu Chethiya converted brillian...

PHOTO: AZLEY KASSIM The sudden passing of Malaysian rugby player Muhammad Khairul Abdillah Ramli , fondly known as Myko , has left a deep wound in the hearts of the nation’s rugby community, especially in Kelantan. The son of Kuala Krai passed away on May 10 while travelling home to Kelantan on an express bus. After stopping at Hentian Merapoh for lunch, the late Myko was reportedly struggling to breathe. His face turned pale before he was later confirmed to have passed away. His departure leaves behind grieving family members, close friends, and a rugby fraternity that knew him as a fearless warrior on the field. Tragically, just a day before his passing, Myko was still doing what he loved most, fighting for Kelantan on the rugby field. He inspired his team to a memorable victory over defending champions PDRM in the opening match of the Piala Agong . Playing as scrum half, Myko’s leadership, composure, and tireless contributions proved crucial in one of the biggest results of the to...

The IIUM Hexangular Rugby XV League delivered six weeks of passion, intensity, and true university rugby spirit as six teams from five varsities battled proudly in one of the few remaining collegiate Rugby XV competitions in the country. In an era where university teams are more active in 7s and 10s formats, this league proved that the traditional fifteen-a-side game is still very much alive. The Cup Final saw the UiTM Lions edge the IIUM Mustangs 10–5 in a hard-fought clash before unfavorable weather conditions forced the match to end 10 minutes into the second half. Despite the shortened contest, the Lions once again showed their class and consistency, finishing the season unbeaten. Their structure, discipline, and physicality highlighted a squad capable of competing at a much higher level. The IIUM Mustangs also impressed throughout the campaign. Although their potential was evident, the lack of regular Rugby XV competitions continues to limit their development compared to other...

Negeri Sembilan Rugby may have lifted the Piala Agong trophy only three times, but history tells a deeper story, one of resilience, pride, and undeniable quality. In a tournament regarded as Malaysia’s most prestigious rugby stage since 1983, Negeri Sembilan have never been mere participants. They are perennial contenders, a team rich in skill, talent, and fighting spirit. Now entering the 42nd edition as challengers in Pool B, Negeri Sembilan carry both hunger and legacy. Their last triumph came in 2003, but their influence has never faded. Over the years, they have produced some of the nation’s finest players, shaping Malaysian rugby with grit and excellence. Any opponent who underestimates them does so at their own peril. Guiding this ambitious squad is Head Coach Mohd Mazuri Sallehudin , a former national player and Piala Agong winner himself. Alongside him is Assistant Coach Farid Rahman , a national legend who has graced global stages like the Commonwealth Games and Hong Kong S...

By: Megat Mohammad Faisal The Hong Kong Sevens turned 50, and celebrated like only it can, with roaring crowds, nonstop action, and unforgettable champions at Kai Tak Stadium. It was a weekend where rugby met festival energy. Fans packed the stands in record numbers, including a stunning 41,457 on Saturday alone, creating an atmosphere that players could feel in every tackle, sprint, and try. On the field, New Zealand once again showed why they are the benchmark in women’s sevens. In a gripping final, they edged rivals Australia 19–14 to secure their fourth straight Hong Kong title, extending a dominant run that continues to define the global stage. Then came the moment the crowd had been waiting for. South Africa delivered a statement performance, overpowering Argentina 35–7 to finally claim their first Hong Kong crown. A breakthrough victory years in the making. With France ’s women and Spain ’s men also stepping onto the podium, the tournament had it all, drama, history, and ce...