TIGERS UNITED

PHOTO: TOUCH ASSOCIATION SELANGOR Malaysia 's finest Touch players are set to converge at UKM Bangi on 18 and 19 July 2026 as the Malaysia Touch Association hosts the fourth edition of the National Touch Championship (NTC) alongside the inaugural Junior National Touch Championship (JNTC). A total of 54 teams from nine states, Selangor , Kuala Lumpur , Putrajaya , Pahang , Perak , Negeri Sembilan , Melaka , Penang , and Johor will battle across 108 thrilling matches over two action-packed days in what promises to be the country's biggest Touch event yet. Touch is one of the world's fastest-growing non-contact sports, combining the excitement of rugby with lightning speed, agility, precision passing, and exceptional teamwork without the heavy tackles. Every match delivers relentless end-to-end action, tactical brilliance, and split-second decision-making, creating an entertaining spectacle for players and spectators alike. PHOTO:  TOUCH ASSOCIATION SELANGOR Putrajaya e...

Malaysia Rugby has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening player welfare and safety following the recent tragic deaths of four individuals associated with the sport. In a media statement, the governing body expressed its deepest condolences to the families, friends, teammates, schools, clubs, and the wider rugby community affected by the losses, describing the incidents as a heartbreaking moment for Malaysian rugby. Following a preliminary review, Malaysia Rugby said the four incidents appear to be independent of one another, with no evidence suggesting a single common cause. Nevertheless, every case will undergo a comprehensive review to identify opportunities to further improve player welfare and safety across all levels of the game. The union emphasised that all Malaysia Rugby-sanctioned competitions already comply with strict medical standards. These include mandatory medical personnel, emergency action plans, hydration and heat mitigation measures, as well as concussion recog...

The wait is finally over. After years of heartbreak, Johor are champions once again. The Southern Tigers produced an unforgettable fightback to defeat Terengganu 34-26 and capture the 2026 Piala Agong title before about 4,500 passionate rugby fans at Stadium UiTM, Shah Alam. The thrilling showdown was a fitting finale to the 42nd edition of Malaysia 's most prestigious rugby championship. Everything seemed to belong to Terengganu in the opening minutes. The unbeaten side stormed into a stunning 19-0 lead, leaving Johor facing their biggest challenge of the season. But champions are defined by character, not circumstances. Johor refused to surrender. Driven by belief and determination, they clawed their way back with three unanswered tries to trail just 19-17 at halftime. The momentum had shifted, and so had the destiny of the match. After the break, Johor completed one of the greatest comebacks in Piala Agong history, sealing a remarkable 34-26 victory to claim their third ...

For more than four decades, the Piala Agong has represented the pinnacle of Malaysian rugby. Since 1983, the nation's most prestigious championship has produced unforgettable champions, dramatic moments, and fierce rivalries. Now, in its 42nd edition, the competition is ready for a grand finale worthy of its proud history. After months of intense battles involving nine outstanding teams, only two remain unbeaten. Johor versus Terengganu . It is a dream final between two of the country's strongest teams, both arriving with momentum, confidence, and a burning desire to lift the trophy. Neither side had an easy path to the final. Johor edged Kelantan 32-29 in a thrilling semifinal, securing victory with a dramatic last-play penalty. Terengganu's journey was equally dramatic as they stunned defending champions PDRM 22-20, with Nasharuddin Ismail scoring a last-minute try that sent the unbeaten side into celebration. Now, only one challenge remains. Terengganu enter the fin...

Kuala Lumpur may have finished fourth in Pool A, but their Piala Agong 2026 journey is about far more than results and standings. From the opening round, KL showed they belonged among Malaysia 's best. They pushed tournament favourites Terengganu to the limit before narrowly falling short and remained highly competitive throughout the competition. While luck may not always have been on their side, their performances earned respect across the tournament. What makes this team special is its foundation. More than 80 percent of the squad consists of players developed through the Kuala Lumpur Rugby League . These are local talents who have worked their way up through the KL rugby system, proving that dedication and hard work can compete with the best. Much of the credit goes to team manager Shahrin Shamsuddin , who has helped build a strong and united squad. Head coach Dr Ahmad Fadzlee has also played a key role, sharing his knowledge and experience to help the team continue growin...

Hong Kong China  once again stamped their authority on Asian rugby, securing a remarkable seventh consecutive Asia Rugby Emirates Championship title with a commanding 45–9 win over Korea  in Game 2 of the 2026 campaign. After surviving a dramatic 15–14 escape against Sri Lanka in Colombo last week, Hong Kong returned home to the Hong Kong Football Club with a clear mission, finish the job in style. They did exactly that, producing a composed, clinical, and ruthless performance to seal the championship with one match still to play. The first half was competitive, with Korea refusing to back down. Hong Kong led 12–9 at the break, with tries from Sunia Fameitau and Charles Higson-Smith , supported by a conversion from Dylan McCann . Korea stayed in touch through three well-taken penalties, keeping the contest alive. However, the second half belonged entirely to the champions. Hong Kong exploded into life with wave after wave of attacking pressure. Tries from Brendon Nell , Jac...

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...

By: Megat Mohammad Faisal The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens is not just another stop on the calendar, it’s a golden celebration. From 17–19 April 2026, the legendary tournament marks its 50th anniversary, and for rugby fans who treat this trip like an annual pilgrimage, this one feels extra special. Welcome to a new era at Kai Tak Stadium . After decades at Hong Kong Stadium, the Sevens now moves into a futuristic 50,000-seat arena complete with a retractable roof and cooling system.  Let’s be honest, Hong Kong humidity is the real opponent. And don’t worry, the iconic South Stand survives, costumes and all. Yes, that guy dressed as a banana will still be there. Off the field, it’s pure entertainment. Think Vengaboys , K-pop, and a party vibe that makes you question whether you came for rugby or a three-day festival (spoiler: it’s both). On the pitch, expect fireworks. South Africa  sevens team arrive as the team to beat, while Fiji rugby sevens team bring their trademark fl...

Malaysian rugby fans have plenty to look forward to as Malaysia Rugby unveiled its exciting 2026 calendar, featuring elite competitions, international fixtures, and strong development initiatives. The season begins with Piala Agong 2026 from May 9 to June 28, involving 10 teams. Defending champions PDRM return, while Johor are expected to mount a serious title challenge. July will spotlight the Union Cup XV Men’s Championship, now in its third edition. Malaysia’s Bunga Raya 15s will make their debut, joining defending champions Philippines , along with Thailand , Singapore , Chinese Taipei , and Guam . The Bunga Raya 15s are also set to compete in the Asia Rugby Championship Division 1, with venue and dates yet to be confirmed. Development remains a priority through the National Rugby Development Program (NRDP), now overseen by the Malaysia Rugby. As part of this effort, the Bunga Raya Cup Under-18 Championship will be held in July. On the international stage, Malaysia’s men’s...

South Africa and New Zealand produced a spectacular finish to the HSBC SVNS Series in New York, sealing both tournament glory and overall season honours in dramatic fashion. New Zealand’s Black Ferns Sevens once again showcased their champion quality, edging fierce rivals Australia 22–21 in a thrilling final. Despite already securing the overall series title, New Zealand showed no signs of slowing down, with Kelsey Teneti scoring twice alongside tries from Alena Saili and Katelyn Vahaakolo . Australia pushed them to the limit, but the Black Ferns held firm to claim their fifth tournament win of the season. The Blitzboks held their nerve to edge Fiji 10–7 in a tense men’s final, clinching the gold medal and the overall series title. With both prizes at stake, South Africa struck early as captain Impi Visser , playing his 50th tournament, created space for Gino Cupido to score the opening try. Tristan Leyds extended the lead before Fiji fought back through Terio Veilawa , s...