{ "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1.1", "user_comment": "This feed allows you to read the posts from this site in any feed reader that supports the JSON Feed format. To add this feed to your reader, copy the following URL -- https://www.asiarugby.com/tag/qatar/feed/json/ -- and add it your reader.", "next_url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/tag/qatar/feed/json/?paged=2", "home_page_url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/tag/qatar/", "feed_url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/tag/qatar/feed/json/", "language": "en-US", "title": "Qatar Archives - Asia Rugby", "description": "Regional Association of the Governing Body for the Global Game", "items": [ { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9282", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/02/11/qatar-rugby-crowned-champions/", "title": "Qatar Crowned Champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West", "content_html": "

The Qatar Rugby team emerged as champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West after defeating Iran 40-12 in a thrilling match held at the Al Ain Amblers Rugby Club in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

\n

\u00a0

\n
\"Qatar
Wade Lotter scored a hat-trick
\n

The Qatar team dominated the game with relentless pressure and a solid performance, with hooker Wade Lotter scoring a hat-trick and playing a crucial role in the victory.

\n


\nAs champions of the regional division, Qatar will now join India and Kazakhstan in the Division 3 Championship playoffs soon. The winner and runner-up of the playoffs will gain promotion to Division 2 and keep their dreams alive of a pathway to the Asia Rugby Championship and further progress to qualification for the Rugby World Cup 2027.

\n
\n

Solidarity and Respect! The least we can offer, one minute silence at Qatar \"\ud83c\uddf6\ud83c\udde6\" vs Iran \"\ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddf7\" match at @asiarugby Championship Division 3 West played in Al Ain – UAE \"\ud83c\udde6\ud83c\uddea\"

\n

Our prayers and hearts with all victims\u2019 families #Syria #Turkey pic.twitter.com/YUeF9xswHS

\n

— Qais A. Al Dhalai (@QaisUAE) February 10, 2023

\n

\n

During the closing ceremony, a minute of silence was observed to show solidarity with the Syria High Rugby Committee, Turkish Rugby Federation, and everyone affected by the recent devastating earthquakes in Syria and Turkey.

\n


\nAsia Rugby Independent Executive Committee member Trevor Gregory presented the championship trophy to the champions.\u00a0

\n

Man of the match, Wade Lotter from Qatar, spoke to Asia Rugby about the tournament, saying, “There was a long wait for this

\n
\"\"
Ali Yaghooti
\n

tournament to happen and a huge build-up, and everyone was fired up for the game. It was a good game, and I was just fortunate to score the tries, but the credit must go to the team.”

\n

\u00a0Iran also demonstrated impressive character, finishing the game with two outstanding tries by superstar Ali Yaghooti

\n

Related Articles
\nAsia Rugby Appoints Match Officials for Division 3 West\u00a0
\nAsia Rugby season kicks off with Qatar vs Iran Clash \u200e

\n

Asia Rugby Calendar 2023
\nhttps://www.asiarugby.com/calendar-2023/

\n

Watch the full game
\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWw24pO_3s8

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The post Qatar Crowned Champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The Qatar Rugby team emerged as champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West after defeating Iran 40-12 in a thrilling match held at the Al Ain Amblers Rugby Club in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.\n\u00a0\nWade Lotter scored a hat-trick\nThe Qatar team dominated the game with relentless pressure and a solid performance, with hooker Wade Lotter scoring a hat-trick and playing a crucial role in the victory.\n\nAs champions of the regional division, Qatar will now join India and Kazakhstan in the Division 3 Championship playoffs soon. The winner and runner-up of the playoffs will gain promotion to Division 2 and keep their dreams alive of a pathway to the Asia Rugby Championship and further progress to qualification for the Rugby World Cup 2027.\n\nSolidarity and Respect! The least we can offer, one minute silence at Qatar vs Iran match at @asiarugby Championship Division 3 West played in Al Ain – UAE \nOur prayers and hearts with all victims\u2019 families #Syria #Turkey pic.twitter.com/YUeF9xswHS\n— Qais A. Al Dhalai (@QaisUAE) February 10, 2023\n\nDuring the closing ceremony, a minute of silence was observed to show solidarity with the Syria High Rugby Committee, Turkish Rugby Federation, and everyone affected by the recent devastating earthquakes in Syria and Turkey.\n\nAsia Rugby Independent Executive Committee member Trevor Gregory presented the championship trophy to the champions.\u00a0 \nMan of the match, Wade Lotter from Qatar, spoke to Asia Rugby about the tournament, saying, “There was a long wait for this\nAli Yaghooti\ntournament to happen and a huge build-up, and everyone was fired up for the game. It was a good game, and I was just fortunate to score the tries, but the credit must go to the team.”\n\u00a0Iran also demonstrated impressive character, finishing the game with two outstanding tries by superstar Ali Yaghooti\nRelated Articles\nAsia Rugby Appoints Match Officials for Division 3 West\u00a0\nAsia Rugby season kicks off with Qatar vs Iran Clash \u200e\nAsia Rugby Calendar 2023\nhttps://www.asiarugby.com/calendar-2023/\nWatch the full game\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWw24pO_3s8\nThe post Qatar Crowned Champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-02-11T23:01:55+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-02-11T23:01:55+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Qatar.jpg", "tags": [ "Iran", "Qatar", "Featured", "Asia Rugby Championship" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=8301", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2021/10/12/uae-clinch-double-gold-at-the-west-asia-7s-trophy/", "title": "UAE clinch double gold at the West Asia 7s trophy", "content_html": "

The United Arab Emirates men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams impressed at the West Asia 7s Trophy 2021 tournament held in Doha, Qatar as they won bragging rights to the title in both categories.

\n

UAE men beat a spirited Iran in the cup final by 38-14 while the UAE women\u2019s team thrashed Qatar by a scoreline of 41-0 refusing to concede a single try.

\n

\"\"

\n

 

\n

After a loss and a draw on Day 1, UAE turned the tide in their favour and maintained a\u00a0near-dominant streak on the concluding day of the tournament.

\n

Despite an unfortunate loss in\u00a0the final, Co-captain of the Qatar women\u2019s team Lauren Mudgway said that \u201cI am happy to be\u00a0back on the field.

\n

The highlight of the tournament for me was playing our first game back. We\u00a0didn\u2019t play competitive rugby for two years, so the feeling of being together again as teammates\u00a0and competitors is surreal.\u201d

\n

\"\"

\n

Despite a slow start in the tournament, the Palestines men put on a commendable show as they\u00a0made their first debut on Asia stage and showcased a decent level of rugby.

\n

Even as Iraq women fell\u00a0short of securing a win in the women\u2019s category, Zina Saleem powered the team to their\u00a0first-ever international try in their debut match against the hosts Qatar.

\n

\"West

\n

Asia Rugby President Mr Qais Al Dhalai joined the players and officials over two days of\u00a0action-packed rugby weekend and extended his best wishes to the winners and\u00a0participants alike. \u201cMany congratulations to the winning teams and to all participants for\u00a0bringing out the best of their sportsman spirit.

\n

We are happy to organize another international\u00a0tournament on Asian soil after a successful U-18 Girls championship last month in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

\n

\"West

\n

It is also a proud\u00a0moment for us at Asia Rugby to be able to offer Palestine and Iraq a platform to ink history with their first\u00a0international debut.”

\n

The President also took time out to laud the efforts of various federations in ensuring an environment of safe play. “As Asia Rugby is devoted to the safety of players, officials and fans under all circumstances, we are continuously monitoring the health situation in the region while adhering to COVID-19 protocols\u201d.

\n

With continued cooperation from all our Asia Rugby member unions to our ‘Return to Play’ initiative, we are certain that Asia Rugby will conduct many more tournaments to further strengthen the principles of equality, transparency and accountability in all quarters of the game.”

\n

 

\n

Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy 2021

\n

West Asia 7 Fixures and Results

\n

[West Asia Men’s 7s]\u00a0 |\u00a0\u00a0[West Asia Women’s 7s]\u00a0

\n

 

\n

FACEBOOK\u00a0|\u00a0INSTAGRAM\u00a0|\u00a0TWITTER\u00a0 |\u00a0YOUTUBE\u00a0\u00a0 |\u00a0LINKEDIN

\n

 

\n

\"West

\n

Final Standings
\nMen

\n

Gold: UAE
\nSilver: Iran
\n3rd: Qatar
\n4th: Lebanon
\n5th: Palestine

\n

 

\n

Final Standings
\nWomen

\n

Gold: UAE
\nSilver: Qatar
\n3rd: Iran
\n4th: Syria
\n5th: Iraq

\n

The post UAE clinch double gold at the West Asia 7s trophy appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The United Arab Emirates men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams impressed at the West Asia 7s Trophy 2021 tournament held in Doha, Qatar as they won bragging rights to the title in both categories.\nUAE men beat a spirited Iran in the cup final by 38-14 while the UAE women\u2019s team thrashed Qatar by a scoreline of 41-0 refusing to concede a single try.\n\n \nAfter a loss and a draw on Day 1, UAE turned the tide in their favour and maintained a\u00a0near-dominant streak on the concluding day of the tournament.\nDespite an unfortunate loss in\u00a0the final, Co-captain of the Qatar women\u2019s team Lauren Mudgway said that \u201cI am happy to be\u00a0back on the field.\nThe highlight of the tournament for me was playing our first game back. We\u00a0didn\u2019t play competitive rugby for two years, so the feeling of being together again as teammates\u00a0and competitors is surreal.\u201d\n\nDespite a slow start in the tournament, the Palestines men put on a commendable show as they\u00a0made their first debut on Asia stage and showcased a decent level of rugby.\nEven as Iraq women fell\u00a0short of securing a win in the women\u2019s category, Zina Saleem powered the team to their\u00a0first-ever international try in their debut match against the hosts Qatar.\n\nAsia Rugby President Mr Qais Al Dhalai joined the players and officials over two days of\u00a0action-packed rugby weekend and extended his best wishes to the winners and\u00a0participants alike. \u201cMany congratulations to the winning teams and to all participants for\u00a0bringing out the best of their sportsman spirit.\nWe are happy to organize another international\u00a0tournament on Asian soil after a successful U-18 Girls championship last month in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.\n\nIt is also a proud\u00a0moment for us at Asia Rugby to be able to offer Palestine and Iraq a platform to ink history with their first\u00a0international debut.”\nThe President also took time out to laud the efforts of various federations in ensuring an environment of safe play. “As Asia Rugby is devoted to the safety of players, officials and fans under all circumstances, we are continuously monitoring the health situation in the region while adhering to COVID-19 protocols\u201d.\nWith continued cooperation from all our Asia Rugby member unions to our ‘Return to Play’ initiative, we are certain that Asia Rugby will conduct many more tournaments to further strengthen the principles of equality, transparency and accountability in all quarters of the game.”\n \nAsia Rugby Sevens Trophy 2021\nWest Asia 7 Fixures and Results\n[West Asia Men’s 7s]\u00a0 |\u00a0\u00a0[West Asia Women’s 7s]\u00a0\n \nFACEBOOK\u00a0|\u00a0INSTAGRAM\u00a0|\u00a0TWITTER\u00a0 |\u00a0YOUTUBE\u00a0\u00a0 |\u00a0LINKEDIN\n \n\nFinal Standings\nMen\nGold: UAE\nSilver: Iran\n3rd: Qatar\n4th: Lebanon\n5th: Palestine\n \nFinal Standings\nWomen\nGold: UAE\nSilver: Qatar\n3rd: Iran\n4th: Syria\n5th: Iraq\nThe post UAE clinch double gold at the West Asia 7s trophy appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2021-10-12T06:19:14+08:00", "date_modified": "2021-10-12T06:21:47+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/002.jpg", "tags": [ "Syria", "Palestine", "Iraq", "Iran", "Lebanon", "UAE", "Qatar", "Featured", "Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy", "News", "AR West" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=7161", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2020/05/16/world-rugby-associate-members-jordan-qatar/", "title": "Jordan and Qatar become associate members of World Rugby", "content_html": "

The Jordan Rugby Committee, Qatar Rugby Federation and Turkish Rugby Federation have been welcomed as World Rugby associate members, bringing the number of national unions in membership to 127.

\n

World Rugby\u2019s supreme decision-making body approved the recommendation of the Executive and Regional Committees to accept the three unions as associate members after each demonstrated the necessary governance criteria.

\n

Read: Qatar triumph in ARC Division III West

\n

\"\"

\n

Jordan and Qatar have been making strides in Asia. Qatar\u2019s first rugby club was first established in 1974 with international representation coming in 2006.

\n

Jordan has a thriving women\u2019s game and the men\u2019s team made their international 15s debut in 2010. Jordan also holds the record for the lowest-ever rugby match, played at 400 metres below sea level.

\n

SEE FULL LIST OF WORLD RUGBY MEMBER UNIONS >>

\n

World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: \u201cAs part of our continuing commitment to grow and diversify the global game we are delighted to welcome Jordan, Qatar and Turkey as associate members of World Rugby, three unions who have an exciting rugby appetite and potential.

\n

\"Asia

\n

\u201cBeing part of the rugby family will accelerate rugby\u2019s growth in these countries by providing them with continuous support and a solid framework to develop the three unions in a sustainable and efficient way.\u201d

\n

Asia Rugby President Qais Al-Dhalai said ” It has been a privilege to support Jordan Rugby in developing the game. Jordan Rugby\u2019s success is a great example of a Regional Association and a union working together as a team. The efforts of the dedicated men and women in Jordan Rugby has paid off! The whole of Asia Rugby celebrates with Jordan Rugby.”

\n

\"\"\u00a0Jordan Rugby Committee Chairman, HRH Prince Mired Ra\u2019ad Zaid Al-Hussain said: \u201cOn behalf of the Jordan Rugby community, I would like to thank all members of World Rugby for electing Jordan Rugby as an associate member. It is a very important step in the development of rugby in Jordan and a deserved reward after the tremendous efforts made over the last 10 years by everyone involved in this great game.\u201d

\n

Read: Jordan women excited to see what the future holds

\n

Asia Rugby President Qais Al-Dhalai said “It has been a privilege to work with Qatar Rugby’s development team for the last few years. It is encouraging to see the progress made in a short period of time. We would be delighted to support QRF further in the years to come.”

\n

\"\"

\n

Qatar Rugby Federation President Yousef Al Kuwari said: \u201cOn behalf of the Qatar Rugby Federation and all rugby players and fans in the country, we are pleased and honoured to become an associate member of World Rugby. With 40 years of rugby in Qatar, this recognition will support the game\u2019s growth in our country and hopefully improve our competitiveness on the international stage.\u201d

\n

 

\n

The post Jordan and Qatar become associate members of World Rugby appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The Jordan Rugby Committee, Qatar Rugby Federation and Turkish Rugby Federation have been welcomed as World Rugby associate members, bringing the number of national unions in membership to 127.\nWorld Rugby\u2019s supreme decision-making body approved the recommendation of the Executive and Regional Committees to accept the three unions as associate members after each demonstrated the necessary governance criteria.\nRead: Qatar triumph in ARC Division III West\n\nJordan and Qatar have been making strides in Asia. Qatar\u2019s first rugby club was first established in 1974 with international representation coming in 2006.\nJordan has a thriving women\u2019s game and the men\u2019s team made their international 15s debut in 2010. Jordan also holds the record for the lowest-ever rugby match, played at 400 metres below sea level.\nSEE FULL LIST OF WORLD RUGBY MEMBER UNIONS >>\nWorld Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: \u201cAs part of our continuing commitment to grow and diversify the global game we are delighted to welcome Jordan, Qatar and Turkey as associate members of World Rugby, three unions who have an exciting rugby appetite and potential.\n\n\u201cBeing part of the rugby family will accelerate rugby\u2019s growth in these countries by providing them with continuous support and a solid framework to develop the three unions in a sustainable and efficient way.\u201d\nAsia Rugby President Qais Al-Dhalai said ” It has been a privilege to support Jordan Rugby in developing the game. Jordan Rugby\u2019s success is a great example of a Regional Association and a union working together as a team. The efforts of the dedicated men and women in Jordan Rugby has paid off! The whole of Asia Rugby celebrates with Jordan Rugby.”\n\u00a0Jordan Rugby Committee Chairman, HRH Prince Mired Ra\u2019ad Zaid Al-Hussain said: \u201cOn behalf of the Jordan Rugby community, I would like to thank all members of World Rugby for electing Jordan Rugby as an associate member. It is a very important step in the development of rugby in Jordan and a deserved reward after the tremendous efforts made over the last 10 years by everyone involved in this great game.\u201d\nRead: Jordan women excited to see what the future holds\nAsia Rugby President Qais Al-Dhalai said “It has been a privilege to work with Qatar Rugby’s development team for the last few years. It is encouraging to see the progress made in a short period of time. We would be delighted to support QRF further in the years to come.”\n\nQatar Rugby Federation President Yousef Al Kuwari said: \u201cOn behalf of the Qatar Rugby Federation and all rugby players and fans in the country, we are pleased and honoured to become an associate member of World Rugby. With 40 years of rugby in Qatar, this recognition will support the game\u2019s growth in our country and hopefully improve our competitiveness on the international stage.\u201d\n \nThe post Jordan and Qatar become associate members of World Rugby appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2020-05-16T13:40:59+08:00", "date_modified": "2020-05-16T13:40:59+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Head-Qatar-and-jordon.jpg", "tags": [ "Qatar", "Jordon", "Featured", "News" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=5733", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2019/04/08/asia-rugby-west-womens-sevens/", "title": "Jordan women make history in Qatar Asia Rugby West Women\u2019s Sevens", "content_html": "

Jordan, Qatar and Lebanon recently competed in the Asia Rugby West Women’s Sevens tournament, with Jordan making history with their first ever international.

\n

The tournament was eventually won by Qatar, defending their title, but Farah Ghanma, who was part of the Jordanian side spoke to Asia Rugby about her experience.\u00a0

\n

“Ever since 2006, in which Jordan Rugby was founded, it has been reaching great accomplishments and achievements. One of Jordan Rugby’s latest achievements would be the participation of the first women’s rugby Jordanian national team in their first international championship, which took place in Doha, Qatar.

\n

The women’s national team is relatively new, especially that women here in Jordan were first introduced to rugby in the end of the year of 2017.

\n

The girls have played two contact games with their own clubs back at home a month prior to the championship, thus, our participation in this year’s Asia Rugby West Women’s Sevens tournament counts as the third time in which the girls have ever played contact.

\n

Despite the fact that the women’s team had such a minimal amount of time to practice and prepare for the championship, this did not stop the girls from giving a spectacular performance on the field.

\n

We were the newest team among the three other teams that participated in the championship this year, which did induce a slight amount of fear, as they were indeed very strong, competitive, and experienced.

\n

However, we did manage to overcome that doubt and give it our all. Jordan even managed to score an overall number of four tries, which reflects the perseverance and resilience the girls had on the pitch.

\n

One of the main reasons behind the participation of the Jordanian women in this championship would be to encourage more and more females to join this beautiful and unique sport, and break the general stereotypes regarding women in contact sports such as rugby.

\n

Rugby is for everyone and anyone, as it revolves only around values and respect. Thus, we are more than excited to share our passion towards rugby to the world, and empower more females to unleash their inner strength.

\n

With our exuberance and utter love towards rugby, we are looking forward to participate in many more championships ahead, and encourage females from all around the world to join us along this journey.”

\n

You can watch the games\u00a0 On demand on the Asia Rugby YouTube Channel @AsiaRugbyLive

\n
1.0.0.20
\n
1.0.0.20
\n

The post Jordan women make history in Qatar Asia Rugby West Women’s Sevens appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Jordan, Qatar and Lebanon recently competed in the Asia Rugby West Women’s Sevens tournament, with Jordan making history with their first ever international.\nThe tournament was eventually won by Qatar, defending their title, but Farah Ghanma, who was part of the Jordanian side spoke to Asia Rugby about her experience.\u00a0\n“Ever since 2006, in which Jordan Rugby was founded, it has been reaching great accomplishments and achievements. One of Jordan Rugby’s latest achievements would be the participation of the first women’s rugby Jordanian national team in their first international championship, which took place in Doha, Qatar.\nThe women’s national team is relatively new, especially that women here in Jordan were first introduced to rugby in the end of the year of 2017.\nThe girls have played two contact games with their own clubs back at home a month prior to the championship, thus, our participation in this year’s Asia Rugby West Women’s Sevens tournament counts as the third time in which the girls have ever played contact.\nDespite the fact that the women’s team had such a minimal amount of time to practice and prepare for the championship, this did not stop the girls from giving a spectacular performance on the field.\nWe were the newest team among the three other teams that participated in the championship this year, which did induce a slight amount of fear, as they were indeed very strong, competitive, and experienced.\nHowever, we did manage to overcome that doubt and give it our all. Jordan even managed to score an overall number of four tries, which reflects the perseverance and resilience the girls had on the pitch.\nOne of the main reasons behind the participation of the Jordanian women in this championship would be to encourage more and more females to join this beautiful and unique sport, and break the general stereotypes regarding women in contact sports such as rugby.\nRugby is for everyone and anyone, as it revolves only around values and respect. Thus, we are more than excited to share our passion towards rugby to the world, and empower more females to unleash their inner strength.\nWith our exuberance and utter love towards rugby, we are looking forward to participate in many more championships ahead, and encourage females from all around the world to join us along this journey.”\nYou can watch the games\u00a0 On demand on the Asia Rugby YouTube Channel @AsiaRugbyLive\n1.0.0.20\n1.0.0.20\nThe post Jordan women make history in Qatar Asia Rugby West Women’s Sevens appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2019-04-08T21:32:09+08:00", "date_modified": "2019-05-29T08:02:47+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/jordon-women-head.jpg", "tags": [ "Womens Rugby", "Lebanon", "Qatar", "Jordon" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=5722", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2019/04/06/asia-rugby-championship-division-3-west-2/", "title": "Qatar triumph in ARC Division III West", "content_html": "

Qatar beat Lebanon 13-10 in an enthralling winner-takes-all final of the Asia Rugby Championship Division 3 West in Doha.

\n

The win puts an end to Lebanon\u2019s recent success in the competition having won the previous two tournaments in 2017 and 2018.

\n

Asia Rugby Championship Division 3 West >>> Fixture and Results\u00a0

\n

The star of the show was undoubtedly Bader Bakaddouri who got the hosts off to a flying start with his fifth try of the tournament.

\n
\"Bader
Bader Bakaddouri
\n

Both sides came into the final match off the back of emphatic wins over Jordan and this match was always going to be hard fought.

\n

Mounir Finan and Tannous Ferris hit back for Lebanon with a try apiece but two missed conversations eventually proved costly.

\n

\"\"

\n

Lebanon led 10-7 at the break, before Brook Tremayne levelled the scores with a penalty in the closing stages before holding his nerve once more to kick a second penalty with just minutes remaining of the match.

\n

When the full-time whistle blew celebrations with both players, coaches and all the home fans continued on the pitch in a historic moment for Qatar Rugby.

\n

Asia Rugby Championsip #ARC2019

\n

Links to #ARC2019 Tournament Pages

\n

#ARC2019
\n#ARC2019D1\u00a0|\u00a0#ARC2019D2
\n#ARC2019D3w\u00a0|\u00a0#ARC2019D3c\u00a0|\u00a0#ARC2019D3es

\n

Watch Asia Rugby Tournament Live and On Demand On Asia Rugby Youtube Channel\u00a0

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The post Qatar triumph in ARC Division III West appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Qatar beat Lebanon 13-10 in an enthralling winner-takes-all final of the Asia Rugby Championship Division 3 West in Doha.\nThe win puts an end to Lebanon\u2019s recent success in the competition having won the previous two tournaments in 2017 and 2018.\nAsia Rugby Championship Division 3 West >>> Fixture and Results\u00a0\nThe star of the show was undoubtedly Bader Bakaddouri who got the hosts off to a flying start with his fifth try of the tournament.\nBader Bakaddouri\nBoth sides came into the final match off the back of emphatic wins over Jordan and this match was always going to be hard fought.\nMounir Finan and Tannous Ferris hit back for Lebanon with a try apiece but two missed conversations eventually proved costly.\n\nLebanon led 10-7 at the break, before Brook Tremayne levelled the scores with a penalty in the closing stages before holding his nerve once more to kick a second penalty with just minutes remaining of the match.\nWhen the full-time whistle blew celebrations with both players, coaches and all the home fans continued on the pitch in a historic moment for Qatar Rugby.\nAsia Rugby Championsip #ARC2019 \nLinks to #ARC2019 Tournament Pages\n#ARC2019\n#ARC2019D1\u00a0|\u00a0#ARC2019D2\n#ARC2019D3w\u00a0|\u00a0#ARC2019D3c\u00a0|\u00a0#ARC2019D3es\nWatch Asia Rugby Tournament Live and On Demand On Asia Rugby Youtube Channel\u00a0\nThe post Qatar triumph in ARC Division III West appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2019-04-06T21:03:54+08:00", "date_modified": "2019-05-29T08:02:01+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/ARC-D3W-head.jpg", "tags": [ "Qatar", "ARC2019", "Lebanon", "Asia Rugby Championship" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=5648", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2019/04/02/qatar-v-jordon/", "title": "Qatar open with impressive win in ARC Div III West", "content_html": "

[ Qatar v Jordan ] Hosts Qatar impressively beat Jordan 77-0 in the Asia Rugby Championship Division III West opener.

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Both sides will now go on and play defending champions Lebanon before the first piece of silverware in the Asia Rugby calendar is decided.

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Brook Tremayne gave Qatar an early lead after 10 minutes before wing Bader Bakaddouri scored the first of four tries on a fine performance.

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Asia Rugby Fixtures and Results >>>>>Fixtures and Results\u00a0

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Ismaail El Hatmi, Jermaine Allen, Martin Murray, and Bakaddouri all added further tries for Qatar in the first half to leave the scores at 36-0 at the break.

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Ryley Douglas, Allen, Bakaddouri (2), Patrick Mills, El Hatmi and Tom Featherstone all crossed the whitewash in the second half to secure an opening victory for Qatar before their final match against Lebanon on 5 April.

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For Jordan, their match with Lebanon takes place on 2 April at 18:00 local time, and will be streamed live on Asia Rugby\u2019s YouTube channel and Facebook page.

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Watch Qatar V Jordan\"\"

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The post Qatar open with impressive win in ARC Div III West appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "[ Qatar v Jordan ] Hosts Qatar impressively beat Jordan 77-0 in the Asia Rugby Championship Division III West opener.\nBoth sides will now go on and play defending champions Lebanon before the first piece of silverware in the Asia Rugby calendar is decided.\n\nBrook Tremayne gave Qatar an early lead after 10 minutes before wing Bader Bakaddouri scored the first of four tries on a fine performance.\nAsia Rugby Fixtures and Results >>>>>Fixtures and Results\u00a0\nIsmaail El Hatmi, Jermaine Allen, Martin Murray, and Bakaddouri all added further tries for Qatar in the first half to leave the scores at 36-0 at the break.\n\nRyley Douglas, Allen, Bakaddouri (2), Patrick Mills, El Hatmi and Tom Featherstone all crossed the whitewash in the second half to secure an opening victory for Qatar before their final match against Lebanon on 5 April.\nFor Jordan, their match with Lebanon takes place on 2 April at 18:00 local time, and will be streamed live on Asia Rugby\u2019s YouTube channel and Facebook page.\n \nWatch Qatar V Jordan\n \n \n \nThe post Qatar open with impressive win in ARC Div III West appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2019-04-02T04:24:30+08:00", "date_modified": "2019-05-29T07:59:07+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/qatar-Head.jpg", "tags": [ "Lebanon", "Qatar", "Qatar v Jordan", "Asia Rugby Championship", "Live Streaming" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=3845", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2018/04/28/lebanon-defend-arc-div-iii-w-title/", "title": "Lebanon defend ARC Div III W title #ARC2018", "content_html": "

Lebanon defended their Asia Rugby Championship Division III West title with a 29-17 victory over Iran in the final.

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Despite trailing 10-0 after 11 minutes, the hosts drew level at half-time thanks to a penalty from Karim Jammal and a penalty try.

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Iran\u2019s Jalal Jahanbakhsh was shown a red card and despite scoring the next try through Mohammad Ataei Nazarabad and taking an 18-10 lead, Lebanon made the extra man count in the second half.

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Joseph Touma scored either side of a Mounir Finan try and \u00a0that was enough to secure a second successive title for Lebanon.

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Earlier, Qatar beat Jordan in the third place play-off, winning 25-11 in their second match in four days.

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Wing Bader Bakaddouri stole the headlines for Qatar as he scored all four of their tries, his hat-trick coming inside the opening 24 minutes.

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Ibrahim Izmigna scored Jordan\u2019s solo try to bring the score to 18-11 early in the second half but Bakaddouri\u2019s fourth secured the win for Qatar.

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Fixtures And Results\u00a0

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#ARC2018\u00a0

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\n#ARC2018DI\u00a0 \u00a0#ARC2018DII

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\n#ARC2018DIIw\u00a0#ARC2018DIIc\u00a0#ARC2018DIIe

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The post Lebanon defend ARC Div III W title #ARC2018 appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Lebanon defended their Asia Rugby Championship Division III West title with a 29-17 victory over Iran in the final.\nDespite trailing 10-0 after 11 minutes, the hosts drew level at half-time thanks to a penalty from Karim Jammal and a penalty try.\n\nIran\u2019s Jalal Jahanbakhsh was shown a red card and despite scoring the next try through Mohammad Ataei Nazarabad and taking an 18-10 lead, Lebanon made the extra man count in the second half.\nJoseph Touma scored either side of a Mounir Finan try and \u00a0that was enough to secure a second successive title for Lebanon.\nEarlier, Qatar beat Jordan in the third place play-off, winning 25-11 in their second match in four days.\n\nWing Bader Bakaddouri stole the headlines for Qatar as he scored all four of their tries, his hat-trick coming inside the opening 24 minutes.\nIbrahim Izmigna scored Jordan\u2019s solo try to bring the score to 18-11 early in the second half but Bakaddouri\u2019s fourth secured the win for Qatar.\n \nFixtures And Results\u00a0\n#ARC2018\u00a0\n\n#ARC2018DI\u00a0 \u00a0#ARC2018DII\n\n#ARC2018DIIw\u00a0#ARC2018DIIc\u00a0#ARC2018DIIe\n \nThe post Lebanon defend ARC Div III W title #ARC2018 appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2018-04-28T07:46:49+08:00", "date_modified": "2018-05-12T17:47:10+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/DSC9070.jpg", "tags": [ "Lebanon", "Qatar", "Iran", "Jordan", "Rugby World Cup 2019", "Asia Rugby Championship", "News", "ARC" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=3839", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2018/04/27/qatar-lebanon-and-syria-make-international-sevens-debuts/", "title": "Qatar, Lebanon and Syria make international sevens debuts", "content_html": "

Alongside the Asia Rugby Championship Division III West competition, a women\u2019s sevens tournament also took place this week.

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Hosted by Lebanon, two Lebanese teams competed with both Qatar and Syria on Wednesday and Thursday, ahead of the ARC Div III W final between Lebanon and Iran.

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All three sides are making their international sevens debuts, becoming the 134th, 135th and 136th countries to play at this level.

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The captain of the Syrian side spoke to Asia Rugby about her journey into the sport, and the competition itself in Lebanon.

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\"Syria
Noura Abu Fadel Syria Scrum Half
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\u201cI was a basketball player and gymnast I got introduced to rugby via the coach in Suwaida,\u201d said Noura Abu Fadel.
\n\u201cI immediately fell in Love with rugby and was excited to see the opportunities it offered.

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\u201cRugby has given me the opportunity to break down barriers and stereotypes and I hope I can be an inspiration for others once we go back.\u201d

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Despite drawing their opening match 5-5 with Lebanon Green, Syria lost their other two matches 17-7 to Qatar and 22-0 to Lebanon Red.

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On day two they lost their semi-final but went on to win the Plate with a 17-2 win over Lebanon Green. Qatar were the eventual winners of the tournament beating Lebanon Red in the final.

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\u201cIt is an honour\u00a0to represent my country,\u201d added Abu Fadel.

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\u201cThe girls were very nervous as this is the first time they are playing in any tournament, but as they progressed they felt more confident.

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\u201cWe are all proud of how we played and now feel\u00a0we can only go up. It has been wonderful for the girls to take part in this tournament.\u201d

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At just 20-years-old Basel Al Halabi is coaching the Syrian women\u2019s sevens team and was impressed with what he/she saw.

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\u201cThis is the first time I am coaching a women\u2019s team and I am very impressed,\u201d said Al Halabi.
\n\u201cI was surprised by the girls, they have a fighting sprit and have not given up and in fact they are playing better than the men.

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\"\"

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\u201cWe are spreading rugby via Get into Rugby in Syria. Things are not very easy and we face a lot of challenges but we hope we are setting up something for the future.\u201d

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The post Qatar, Lebanon and Syria make international sevens debuts appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Alongside the Asia Rugby Championship Division III West competition, a women\u2019s sevens tournament also took place this week.\nHosted by Lebanon, two Lebanese teams competed with both Qatar and Syria on Wednesday and Thursday, ahead of the ARC Div III W final between Lebanon and Iran.\nAll three sides are making their international sevens debuts, becoming the 134th, 135th and 136th countries to play at this level.\nThe captain of the Syrian side spoke to Asia Rugby about her journey into the sport, and the competition itself in Lebanon.\nNoura Abu Fadel Syria Scrum Half\n\u201cI was a basketball player and gymnast I got introduced to rugby via the coach in Suwaida,\u201d said Noura Abu Fadel.\n\u201cI immediately fell in Love with rugby and was excited to see the opportunities it offered.\n\u201cRugby has given me the opportunity to break down barriers and stereotypes and I hope I can be an inspiration for others once we go back.\u201d\nDespite drawing their opening match 5-5 with Lebanon Green, Syria lost their other two matches 17-7 to Qatar and 22-0 to Lebanon Red.\nOn day two they lost their semi-final but went on to win the Plate with a 17-2 win over Lebanon Green. Qatar were the eventual winners of the tournament beating Lebanon Red in the final.\n\u201cIt is an honour\u00a0to represent my country,\u201d added Abu Fadel.\n\u201cThe girls were very nervous as this is the first time they are playing in any tournament, but as they progressed they felt more confident.\n\u201cWe are all proud of how we played and now feel\u00a0we can only go up. It has been wonderful for the girls to take part in this tournament.\u201d\nAt just 20-years-old Basel Al Halabi is coaching the Syrian women\u2019s sevens team and was impressed with what he/she saw.\n\u201cThis is the first time I am coaching a women\u2019s team and I am very impressed,\u201d said Al Halabi.\n\u201cI was surprised by the girls, they have a fighting sprit and have not given up and in fact they are playing better than the men.\n\n\u201cWe are spreading rugby via Get into Rugby in Syria. Things are not very easy and we face a lot of challenges but we hope we are setting up something for the future.\u201d\n \nThe post Qatar, Lebanon and Syria make international sevens debuts appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2018-04-27T19:38:16+08:00", "date_modified": "2018-05-12T17:47:03+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/WhatsApp-Image-2018-04-26-at-06.13.54.jpeg", "tags": [ "Womens Rugby", "Lebanon", "Qatar", "Syria", "#MyRugbyMoment", "News", "Get Into Rugby", "World Rugby" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=3632", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2018/03/20/hosting-arc-div-iii-to-boost-rugby-in-lebanon/", "title": "Hosting ARC Div III to boost rugby in Lebanon", "content_html": "

While many eyes will be on the first round of the Asia Rugby at the end of April, Beirut will host four teams looking to claim the 2018 ARC Division III West title a few days earlier.

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Hosts Lebanon will be aiming to defend the title they won in 2017 following a 25-24 victory over Iran and 24-24 draw with Uzbekistan.

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\"Lebanon\"
Lebanon
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This year at Fouad Chehab Stadium, they face Jordan in their first match on 24 April, with the winner facing either Iran or Qater in the final on 27 April.

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\"\"For head coach Steve Wrigglesworth, he believes his side have improved since last year\u2019s title.

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\u201cMy expectations? This year, others teams have been catching us. But I am expecting more from my players, their fitness is better, their technical ability is better, and the way we have gathered together as a Federation, it all puts us in good stead for the tournament.

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\u201cPreparations are going well. The guys have come together and are taking ownership of the game plan that they are setting in place. They understand what we are trying to achieve, and I am really impressed.

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As for rugby in Lebanon? How can hosting an event like this help rugby in the country?

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\u201cWe are trying to engage the guys here in Lebanon. If we can embed ourselves here with the local guys, it is a good balance, and having more players from Lebanon is good for us.

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\u201cWe are drawing players from around the world. But there is a great camaraderie within the group.

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\u201cI am hoping that hosting the event will also boost our rugby. It is a really busy schedule in the lead up for the guys, the players are putting on events, everyone is chipping in.

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\u201cIt is great, it will spread the word and if we can get Get Into Rugby going and women playing too, it will all help.\u201d

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Asia Rugby Championship Div III W 2018

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Division III West 2018
\nApr 24th \u2013 Apr 27th 2018
\nFouad Chehab Stadium,\u00a0Beirut, Lebanon
\nIran\u00a0 , Qatar\u00a0 ,\u00a0Lebanon\u00a0 and Jordan

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#ARC2018DIIw

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The post Hosting ARC Div III to boost rugby in Lebanon appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "While many eyes will be on the first round of the Asia Rugby at the end of April, Beirut will host four teams looking to claim the 2018 ARC Division III West title a few days earlier.\nHosts Lebanon will be aiming to defend the title they won in 2017 following a 25-24 victory over Iran and 24-24 draw with Uzbekistan.\nLebanon\nThis year at Fouad Chehab Stadium, they face Jordan in their first match on 24 April, with the winner facing either Iran or Qater in the final on 27 April.\nFor head coach Steve Wrigglesworth, he believes his side have improved since last year\u2019s title.\n\u201cMy expectations? This year, others teams have been catching us. But I am expecting more from my players, their fitness is better, their technical ability is better, and the way we have gathered together as a Federation, it all puts us in good stead for the tournament.\n\u201cPreparations are going well. The guys have come together and are taking ownership of the game plan that they are setting in place. They understand what we are trying to achieve, and I am really impressed.\nAs for rugby in Lebanon? How can hosting an event like this help rugby in the country?\n\u201cWe are trying to engage the guys here in Lebanon. If we can embed ourselves here with the local guys, it is a good balance, and having more players from Lebanon is good for us.\n\u201cWe are drawing players from around the world. But there is a great camaraderie within the group.\n\u201cI am hoping that hosting the event will also boost our rugby. It is a really busy schedule in the lead up for the guys, the players are putting on events, everyone is chipping in.\n\u201cIt is great, it will spread the word and if we can get Get Into Rugby going and women playing too, it will all help.\u201d\n \nAsia Rugby Championship Div III W 2018\n\nDivision III West 2018\nApr 24th \u2013 Apr 27th 2018\nFouad Chehab Stadium,\u00a0Beirut, Lebanon\nIran\u00a0 , Qatar\u00a0 ,\u00a0Lebanon\u00a0 and Jordan\n \n#ARC2018DIIw\n \n \nThe post Hosting ARC Div III to boost rugby in Lebanon appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2018-03-20T06:59:47+08:00", "date_modified": "2018-04-10T08:32:18+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/lebanon.jpg", "tags": [ "Iran", "Lebanon", "Qatar", "Jordon", "Asia Rugby Championship", "News" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=2239", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2017/03/03/first-ever-arst-qatar-kick-off-friday/", "title": "First-ever ARST in Qatar to kick off on Friday", "content_html": "

Qatar Rugby Reports that the stage is set for the first ever Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy (ARST), an 11-nation continental championship, which will be held on March 3 and 4 at the Aspire Rugby Pitch in Doha.

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Iran, Jordan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Philippines, Thailand, India, Pakistan, UAE, Singapore and hosts Qatar are participating in the Coffee Brewer-sponsored top grade competition, which is second only to the Asia Rugby Sevens Series in the order of importance.

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Hosted by the Qatar Rugby Federation (QRF), the event is an annual series of regional rugby seven\u2019s tournaments run by Asia Rugby and it follows the sport programme of World Rugby and its regions which reflect the diverse sporting culture of the continent.

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The tournament schedule involves a total of 26 matches including, pool play (round robin) followed by quarter-finals, semis and playoff matches. Each team will play two matches on Day 1 before entering the quarter-finals on day two. There will be three finals played – the Cup, Plate and Bowls.

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The duration of each match of the tournament is 14 minutes (seven minutes for each halves) with a minute half-time.\u00a0 The winners of the ARST Doha 2017 gain promotion to the next Asia Rugby Sevens Series and as such, will have an opportunity at qualifying for the Rugby World Cup (WC7\u2019s) in San Francisco in 2018.

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Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, QRF President Yousef al Kuwari said, \u201cWe are happy to welcome the continent to Doha. We\u2019re prepared to give our best and to ensure that all the participants leave Doha with fond memories. Rugby is becoming bigger by the day in Qatar and we thank Asia Rugby for the confidence reposed in us to host this prestigious tournament.\u201d

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\u201cThis is so far the biggest tournament not only for Qatar but for the GCC as well. We are very much confident of it been successful as everything is 100 percent ready. Our team is ready to give their best and we hope to win. The competition is tough with strong teams like Singapore, UAE and Iran participating. We expect to experience two-days of beautiful rugby,\u201d Kuwari added.

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The event was attended by Competitions Consultant at Asia Rugby Aaron Stockdale, QRF Secretary-General Abdullah al Khater, QRF Director Omran al Sherawi, Qatar national team captain Mubarak al Malik as well as team managers and captains of the Nepalese and Thailand\u2019s national teams.

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Stockdale said, “Asia Rugby is keen to promote the sport across the continent and this tournament is one of the initiatives laid out in line with the vision. We welcome all the teams to Doha and wish them the best of luck at the tournament. QRF has done tremendously well within the short period of its existence and we are confident that the tournament will be very successful.”

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Speaking about his team\u2019s chances, Nepal\u2019s team manager Gopa Chetri said, \u201cParticipating in this competition is much more important to us than anything else. We are happy to be involved in a continental competition of this nature for the first time. Rugby started in Nepal four years ago and to get to this level is a huge achievement for us. We hope to learn a lot from this tournament and bring the experience to bare back home.\u201d

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On his part, Malik, the Qatar national team captain, said, \u201cWe are set to give the tournament our best shot. Our aim is to host to win and hopefully our wishes will come true. The preparations from our end have been great and we hope luck will smile on us in the competition.\u201d

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Sherawi, who is also an executive director at Strategic Partner Alliance (SPA) \u2013 the parent company of Coffee Brewer, said, \u201cOur strategic partnership with the QRF is aimed at boosting the sport in the country. We are proud to be the major sponsor of this all-important tournament and we are determined to do wonders for rugby in Qatar in partnership with the federation.\u201d

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Victor Bolorunduro\u00a0\u00a0 ,Doha

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The post First-ever ARST in Qatar to kick off on Friday appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Qatar Rugby Reports that the stage is set for the first ever Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy (ARST), an 11-nation continental championship, which will be held on March 3 and 4 at the Aspire Rugby Pitch in Doha.\nIran, Jordan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Philippines, Thailand, India, Pakistan, UAE, Singapore and hosts Qatar are participating in the Coffee Brewer-sponsored top grade competition, which is second only to the Asia Rugby Sevens Series in the order of importance.\nHosted by the Qatar Rugby Federation (QRF), the event is an annual series of regional rugby seven\u2019s tournaments run by Asia Rugby and it follows the sport programme of World Rugby and its regions which reflect the diverse sporting culture of the continent.\nThe tournament schedule involves a total of 26 matches including, pool play (round robin) followed by quarter-finals, semis and playoff matches. Each team will play two matches on Day 1 before entering the quarter-finals on day two. There will be three finals played – the Cup, Plate and Bowls.\nThe duration of each match of the tournament is 14 minutes (seven minutes for each halves) with a minute half-time.\u00a0 The winners of the ARST Doha 2017 gain promotion to the next Asia Rugby Sevens Series and as such, will have an opportunity at qualifying for the Rugby World Cup (WC7\u2019s) in San Francisco in 2018.\nAddressing a press conference on Wednesday, QRF President Yousef al Kuwari said, \u201cWe are happy to welcome the continent to Doha. We\u2019re prepared to give our best and to ensure that all the participants leave Doha with fond memories. Rugby is becoming bigger by the day in Qatar and we thank Asia Rugby for the confidence reposed in us to host this prestigious tournament.\u201d\n\u201cThis is so far the biggest tournament not only for Qatar but for the GCC as well. We are very much confident of it been successful as everything is 100 percent ready. Our team is ready to give their best and we hope to win. The competition is tough with strong teams like Singapore, UAE and Iran participating. We expect to experience two-days of beautiful rugby,\u201d Kuwari added.\nThe event was attended by Competitions Consultant at Asia Rugby Aaron Stockdale, QRF Secretary-General Abdullah al Khater, QRF Director Omran al Sherawi, Qatar national team captain Mubarak al Malik as well as team managers and captains of the Nepalese and Thailand\u2019s national teams.\nStockdale said, “Asia Rugby is keen to promote the sport across the continent and this tournament is one of the initiatives laid out in line with the vision. We welcome all the teams to Doha and wish them the best of luck at the tournament. QRF has done tremendously well within the short period of its existence and we are confident that the tournament will be very successful.”\nSpeaking about his team\u2019s chances, Nepal\u2019s team manager Gopa Chetri said, \u201cParticipating in this competition is much more important to us than anything else. We are happy to be involved in a continental competition of this nature for the first time. Rugby started in Nepal four years ago and to get to this level is a huge achievement for us. We hope to learn a lot from this tournament and bring the experience to bare back home.\u201d\nOn his part, Malik, the Qatar national team captain, said, \u201cWe are set to give the tournament our best shot. Our aim is to host to win and hopefully our wishes will come true. The preparations from our end have been great and we hope luck will smile on us in the competition.\u201d\nSherawi, who is also an executive director at Strategic Partner Alliance (SPA) \u2013 the parent company of Coffee Brewer, said, \u201cOur strategic partnership with the QRF is aimed at boosting the sport in the country. We are proud to be the major sponsor of this all-important tournament and we are determined to do wonders for rugby in Qatar in partnership with the federation.\u201d\nVictor Bolorunduro\u00a0\u00a0 ,Doha\nThe post First-ever ARST in Qatar to kick off on Friday appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2017-03-03T12:57:18+08:00", "date_modified": "2017-03-17T10:45:36+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/12772074_594321884068603_8875009793605213850_o-e1488516918720.jpg", "tags": [ "Qatar", "#ARST", "News" ] } ] }