Wekesa retained by Hyderabad Heroes for Rugby Premier League Season Two

Kenya sevens forward Kevin Wekesa in action against South Africa during a recent sevens tournament/ HANDOUT

Kenya Sevens forward Kevin Wekesa has been retained by the Hyderabad Heroes ahead of the second season of the Rugby Premier League scheduled for June 16–28 in India.

The powerful forward, who impressed during the inaugural campaign last year, will be aiming to play a central role as Hyderabad chase the title in the two-week tournament.

The Rugby Premier League made history in 2025 as the world’s first franchise-based rugby sevens competition, debuting at the Mumbai Football Arena. The tournament drew elite talent from the HSBC SVNS Series, delivering a fast-paced spectacle designed to accelerate the sport’s growth and global competitiveness in India.

Season Two is expected to retain its high-intensity format, featuring six city-based franchises blending international stars with emerging Indian players.

The teams include Bengaluru Bravehearts, Chennai Bulls, Delhi Redz, Hyderabad Heroes, Kalinga Black Tigers, and Mumbai Dreamers. In the maiden edition, Chennai Bulls were crowned champions after a dominant 41-0 victory over Delhi Redz in the final staged at the Shahaji Raje Bhosale Sports Complex.

Wekesa, who also features for Kabras Sugar RFC, expressed his excitement at returning to the competition. “It is an honour for the second year running in Asia playing against the top Sevens players in the world. I am looking forward to the tournament, improving my skillset, and leading my team to victory,” he said.

Hyderabad Heroes, with Wekesa playing a key role, finished third in the inaugural edition after edging Bengaluru Bravehearts 17-12 in the bronze playoff.

Meanwhile, Kenya Sevens players Patrick Odongo, Nygel Amaitsa, Samuel Asati, and John Okoth are set to feature for Delhi Redz. The quartet will first turn out for the Kenya national rugby sevens team in the final two legs of the series in Valladolid and Bordeaux before heading to India.

The 2026 edition is also set to expand its footprint, with Rugby India introducing a women’s competition. The inaugural women’s league will feature four franchise teams, with Chennai Bulls, Delhi Redz, Mumbai Dreamers, and Kolkata Banga Tigers all set to field sides.