The following press release on the Inaugural CASA 7s Tournament in Tashkent is shared courtesy CASA Rugby
Message from the President, Asia Rugby (Foreword)
“As Asia Rugby, we are pleased to support and sanction the inaugural CASA 7s Tournament, a significant milestone led by the CASA Rugby Alliance and a strong example of sub-regional collaboration in action.This reflects a long-term vision for Asia, where sub-regional platforms such as the Southeast Asia Rugby Federation (SEARF) and now CASA create more regular, meaningful, and cost-effective competition opportunities for our Member Unions. I look forward to seeing similar structures emerge in West Asia as we continue to strengthen the game across the continent.
Asia is a vast and diverse region, and enabling unions to compete more frequently with their neighbours is essential for sustainable growth. Through these structures, Asia Rugby will continue to support clear and progressive pathways into regional and global competitions, including the Rugby World Cup, Asian Games, Youth Olympic Games, Sevens Series, and age-grade tournaments across both 15s and 7s.”
CASA Rugby Confirms Dates and Host for Inaugural CASA 7s Tournament in Tashkent
12 teams to take part, featuring 6 men’s and 6 women’s teams
A new chapter for rugby in Central and South Asia begins as the CASA Rugby Alliance officially launches, bringing together Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Uzbekistan under a shared vision to grow the game, strengthen regional collaboration, and create cross-border competitive pathways for sub-regional teams.
As highlighted at its inception, the alliance aims to connect Central and South Asia through more rugby events and stronger partnerships, marking a significant milestone in subregional development.
Inaugural CASA 7s Tournament Confirmed
To mark this historic launch, CASA will host its first-ever CASA 7s Tournament, officially sanctioned by Asia Rugby and World Rugby, reinforcing its importance within the global rugby ecosystem.
📍 Tashkent, Uzbekistan
📅 16–17 May 2026
The tournament will bring together emerging and established rugby nations in a celebration of competition, unity, and growth.
Participating Teams
Women’s Teams
Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, India, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan
Men’s Teams
Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, India, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan
Historic Debut
The tournament will also feature a landmark moment as Tajikistan prepares to make its first-ever appearance in an international rugby tournament, participating in exhibition matches and highlighting the continued growth of rugby across Central Asia.
Quotes
Mr Kakhramon Djalilov, Founder & Convenor of CASA Rugby Alliance, said:
“As hosts of this inaugural event, we are honoured to welcome our neighbouring unions to Tashkent. The commitment of six men’s and six women’s teams is extremely encouraging and reflects the growing strength of rugby in our region. We are especially proud to welcome Tajikistan, whose participation in exhibition matches marks an important step forward for the development of rugby in Central Asia.”
Mr Anis Uz Zaman, CASA Rugby Coordinator, added:
“We are delighted that this tournament has been sanctioned by both Asia Rugby and World Rugby. CASA is designed to complement and extend the work of these organisations, creating more opportunities for our unions. Our goal is to provide a clear and competitive pathway for teams in our regions, helping them progress towards higher-level Asia Rugby and World Rugby competitions.”
Looking Ahead
The CASA 7s Tournament is set to become a cornerstone event in the regional calendar, showcasing talent, inspiring new players, and strengthening the rugby ecosystem across Central and South Asia.
With strong backing, growing participation, and a clear pathway structure, CASA is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of rugby in Asia.
CASA Rugby
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