About us
WE ARE NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
Haryana Rugby Football Association (HRFA) is the state governing body for rugby in Haryana and an association of IRFU-approved District Rugby Associations.
Haryana Rugby is the current National Champion, having secured titles at the Senior National Championships as well as the National Games (Men’s category), reflecting the state’s growing dominance in Indian rugby.
The sport of Rugby is officially recognized by the Government of Haryana and the Government of India. Rugby is also featured in major multi-sport events including the Summer Olympic Games, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, South Asian Games, National Games, University Games, School Games, and Khelo India Games.
Under the guidance and direction of Rugby India, Haryana Rugby is undergoing a rapid transformation in its organizational structure, development programs, and performance systems, with a strong focus on grassroots growth, high-performance pathways, and international standards.
HISTORY & ORIGIN
The earliest trace of Rugby Football in India dates back to 1871, when a scratch match or two were played in Calcutta and Madras during the visit of H.M.S. Galatea. The teak goalposts used for the Calcutta match were later adopted by the Calcutta Football Club (CFC) and remained in use until at least 1886.
The first officially recorded rugby match in India was played on Christmas Day, 1872, at CFC in Calcutta. The match was contested between England and a combined team of Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. The game was so well received that it was repeated within the same week.
By January 1873, the sport had firmly established itself. Club officials were appointed, and the club rolls recorded a total membership of 137 members. The club colours were chosen as red and white with broad stripes.
In 1877, the popularity of the game declined, and rugby in Calcutta nearly died out, leaving behind a substantial club fund. At this critical moment, G.A.J. Rothney, who was serving as Captain, Honorary Secretary, and Treasurer, proposed that the remaining funds be used to commission a trophy of Indian craftsmanship to be presented to the Rugby Football Union (RFU)—the parent body of rugby worldwide. The funds, withdrawn in the form of silver coins, were melted down to create the iconic Calcutta Cup, one of the most prestigious trophies in international rugby today.