sports•3 min read•10/21/2026•1 view
Rajgir to Host India vs New Zealand Under-20 Rugby Series From 22 to 28 October
Rajgir in Bihar will host an India–New Zealand Under-20 rugby series from 22 to 28 October 2026, with New Zealand's under-20 men's and women's teams taking part. The series is a major opportunity for Indian rugby against one of the sport's leading nations.
Rajgir, Bihar: Rajgir will host an India vs New Zealand Under-20 rugby series from 22 to 28 October 2026. New Zealand's under-20 men's and women's teams are taking part, giving young Indian players rare experience against one of the world's strongest rugby nations.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event | India–New Zealand Under-20 Rugby Series |
| Venue | Rajgir, Bihar |
| Dates | 22–28 October 2026 |
| Teams | Under-20 men's and women's teams |
Why it's a big deal for Indian rugby
- New Zealand is a rugby powerhouse: the All Blacks have won the Rugby World Cup three times, and the Black Ferns are multiple women's world champions.
- Facing New Zealand's young players gives Indian athletes exposure to world-class skills, speed and tactics.
- Women's rugby has been one of Indian rugby's growth areas, with the national women's team making progress in Asian competitions.
Rajgir's rise as a sports hub
Rajgir has emerged as one of Bihar's major sports centres:
- It is home to the Rajgir Sports Complex and Bihar's sports university.
- It hosted the Women's Asian Champions Trophy in hockey in 2024 and the men's Hockey Asia Cup in 2025.
- The Bihar government has invested in stadiums and training facilities to attract national and international events.
Same week, same opponent
India's cricket team also begins a T20I series in New Zealand on 22 October at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, making it a busy India–New Zealand week across sports.
What happens next
Match schedules and broadcast details are expected from Rugby India and the organisers. Fans in Bihar can look forward to international rugby on home soil.
Sources
- GKToday, "Rajgir to Host India–New Zealand Under-20 Rugby Series" (10 October 2026): https://www.gktoday.in/current-affairs/
- Rugby India: https://www.rugbyindia.in/