The women’s team from Odisha delivered a commanding performance to clinch the title at the 13th Senior National Rugby 7s Championship, defeating defending champions Bihar by a resounding 27-0 margin in the final held at Rajgir on Friday. With this emphatic victory, Odisha secured its third national title in the last six years, further strengthening its reputation as a powerhouse in Indian women’s rugby.

The final showcased Odisha’s complete dominance as they outplayed Bihar in all departments, leaving the defending champions scoreless. The match also marked the third consecutive final clash between Odisha and Bihar, highlighting the consistent supremacy of these two teams in the national women’s rugby circuit.

Leading from the front, Nirmalya Rout emerged as the star performer for Odisha, scoring an impressive 15 points through three tries. Her outstanding display was well supported by Tarulata Naik, who added 10 points with two tries, while Parbati Hansdah also contributed to the scoreboard, ensuring a comprehensive and one sided victory for the team.

Odisha’s journey to the championship title was equally dominant. In the quarterfinals, they registered a massive 41-0 win against Maharashtra, showcasing their attacking strength and defensive discipline. The team continued its winning momentum in the semifinals with a convincing 31-7 victory over West Bengal, setting up yet another high stakes final against Bihar.

In the third place playoff, West Bengal delivered a strong performance to secure the bronze medal by defeating Delhi 26-0, underlining their competitive presence in the tournament.

Odisha’s triumph at the Senior National Rugby 7s Championship reflects the state’s growing investment in sports development and its consistent performance at the national level. The team’s disciplined gameplay, strategic execution, and strong individual performances played a key role in their successful campaign, making this victory a significant milestone in their rugby journey.

With this latest win, Odisha women have once again demonstrated their dominance in Indian rugby, setting a high benchmark for future competitions and inspiring the next generation of athletes across the country.