The countdown is on for the opening leg of the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series 2025, which kicks off in Hangzhou, China, on 20, 21 September. The tournament marks a historic return to Hangzhou Normal University, the spectacular venue of the 2023 Asian Games Rugby Sevens, where Asia’s finest will once again light up the pitch.
This season sets a new record: 12 national teams in both the men’s and women’s competitions, expanded from 8 in previous editions. With World Rugby’s restructuring of the HSBC SVNS, the top-placed men’s and women’s teams in the Series will secure a coveted place in the new World Rugby HSBC SVNS Division 3, creating a direct global pathway for emerging nations.
Expansion and Inclusion Across Asia
With the Asia Rugby Emirates Trophy and the Emirates Sevens Series combined, more than 45 national teams will compete in Asia Rugby’s Rugby Sevens competitions during the 2025 season. This makes it one of the largest and most inclusive Rugby Sevens structures globally, with one Trophy round and two Series rounds.
Expanded Opportunities for Emerging Nations
The 2025 edition introduces fresh competition, reflecting Asia Rugby’s commitment to growth and inclusivity.
Women’s newcomers: India and Indonesia
Sri Lanka women return to the top tier, strengthening the competition.
Men’s newcomers: Uzbekistan and Chin
Singapore retains its place in both divisions despite finishing bottom last season, earning another chance at the elite level.
Women’s and Men’s Sevens on the Rise
The debut of India and Indonesia in the women’s competition, along with Uzbekistan and Chinese Taipei entering the men’s Series for the first time, is a landmark moment that showcases the widening reach of Rugby across Asia. With 12 teams competing in both competitions, Asia Rugby reaffirms its commitment to gender equity, development pathways, and global progression for athletes.
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Leadership Quotes
Qais Al Dhalai, President of Asia Rugby, said:
“The Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series continues to be the heartbeat of our Sevens strategy, creating opportunities for both established rugby nations and emerging teams to shine on the continental stage. With this expansion, we are not only offering players and fans more competition, but also building a stronger pathway to the global game. This is Asia’s time, and through Rugby we are uniting communities, igniting passion, and opening doors to the world.”
Asanga Seneviratne, Chairperson of Asia Rugby’s Competitions Committee, added:
“Expanding the Emirates Sevens Series to 12 teams is a major milestone in Asia’s Rugby journey. This format ensures emerging nations are given every opportunity to compete at the highest level with the best in the region. It will accelerate the growth of rugby in Asia and strengthen the competition inspire Rugby communities across our continent.
The Competitions Committee is proud to deliver a world class product that helps bridge the gap between developing and elite nations”
Hangzhou Pools, Drawn Based on 2024 Rankings
Men’s Pools
- Pool A: Hong Kong China, Malaysia, UAE, Uzbekistan
Pool B: Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Sri Lanka
Pool C: China, Korea, Philippines, Chinese Taipei
Women’s Pools
- Pool D: China, Malaysia, UAE, Indonesia
Pool E: Japan, Kazakhstan, Singapore, Sri Lanka
Pool F: Hong Kong China, Thailand, Philippines, India
Day one will feature pool matches, with the top two teams from each pool advancing to the Cup Quarterfinals. Remaining teams will battle for classification in placement knockouts, ensuring competitive opportunities for all.
A Growing Sevens Movement in Asia
The return to Hangzhou highlights Asia Rugby’s commitment to staging elite competition at world-class venues. The expanded Series and record number of participating nations underscore Asia Rugby’s vision to make Rugby Sevens one of the most inclusive, exciting, and globally connected sports in the region.
Live Links
Day 1
Rugby pass
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