Mumbai, June 23 -- Rugby sevens, the faster, sharper version of traditional Rugby 15s, has exploded in popularity globally, especially since its inclusion in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

With shorter matches, high-intensity action and the fast nature of the game, it's a format that appeals to newer audiences and newer nations.

While countries like Fiji, Kenya, and Australia have long embraced the sport, India is only just stepping into the arena with promising signs and a bright future ahead of it.

In recent weeks, the GMR Rugby Premier League (RPL) has given Indian players their first taste of elite competition as they play the sport with and against stars at the pinnacle of the sport. It has also given international Olympians a close...