This Saturday the historic Asia Rugby Women’s Championship Divison I kicks off.
With India playing in their first-ever international against Singapore in the tournament opener, history will be made from the very start at the Queenstown Stadium.
The Philippines are the third team involved and the format will see each side play each other to determine the winner.
India’s second international sees them come up against the Philippines on 5 June before hosts Singapore meet the Philippines on 8 June.
Singapore will be favourites for the event as they are ranked 34th in the World Rugby Women’s World Rankings, with the Philippines in 51st and India unranked.
Ada Milby, Asia Rugby council member and representative to World Rugby Council, is looking forward to the tournament as the growth and development of women’s rugby continues in Asia.
“Asia Rugby are really excited to provide these types of competition opportunities for the development of our women’s 15s programs,” said Milby.
“With two Asian teams in last year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup, it’s important to provide these pathways for more national sides within Asia to become competitive at the next level.
“Singapore will come out strong in the set pieces with the precision of a well drilled team and Philippines likely to use the flair of playing ball in hand.
“I’m looking forward to see India make their international test debut as they currently have the strongest women’s domestic league in Asia.”
The three matches will be played at Queenstown Stadium starting on 2 June and you will be able to watch all three matches live on Asia Rugby’s Facebook page.
Asia Rugby Women’s Championship Division I fixtures:
2 June: Singapore v India
5 June: India v Philippine
8 June: Singapore v Philippine
Photo Credit: singaporemaven
