{ "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/category/arc/feed/json/ -- and add it your reader.", "next_url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/category/arc/feed/json/?paged=2", "home_page_url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/category/arc/", "feed_url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/category/arc/feed/json/", "language": "en-US", "title": "ARC Archives - Asia Rugby", "description": "Regional Association of the Governing Body for the Global Game", "items": [ { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=8770", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2022/06/09/korea-through-to-next-stage-of-rugby-world-cup-2023-qualification/", "title": "Korea Through To Next Stage Of Rugby World Cup 2023 Qualification", "content_html": "

Victory in their first fixture for nearly three years sets up a date with Hong Kong on the road to France 2023.

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Korea\u2019s dream of appearing in a first Rugby World Cup remains alive after they defeated Malaysia 55-10 in the opening round of the Asia Rugby Championship 2022 in Incheon on Saturday.

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Dominant up front and incisive in the backs, Korea comfortably had the measure of a Malaysian side that kept going until the bitter end.

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Outside centre Kim Hyon Soo, winger Jeong Yeonsik and full-back Chang Yonghueng scored tries in the first half for Korea at the Namdong Asiad Rugby Stadium, with fly-half Kim Kimin missing only one of the three conversions, but the hosts couldn\u2019t add to that score until much later in the game.

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In the second half, Korea stepped up the pace to score five more tries, two of them by winger and captain Kim Gwongmin. Second-row Shin Dahyeon scored one try and had another disallowed and he was joined on the scoresheet by flanker Choi Seongdeok, scrum-half Chae Minseong and number eight Park Joonyoung. Four of the five tries were converted, one by fly-half Kim Kimin and four by full-back Oh Jimyeong.

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Congratulations \"\ud83c\udf8a\"\"\ud83c\udf89\" Korea \"\ud83c\uddf0\ud83c\uddf7\" for a spirited performance with 55 – 10 win over Malaysia \"\ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\uddfe\" Korea will host Hong Kong \"\ud83c\udded\ud83c\uddf0\" on the 9th of July #RWC2023 #WorldRugby #AsiaRugby pic.twitter.com/YnEUdXYJp5

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\u2014 Asia Rugby (@asiarugby) June 4, 2022

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Malaysia had chances too but it wasn\u2019t until the last minute, when number eight Etonia Saukuru hoodwinked the Korean defence with a try from a well-worked lineout move, that they managed to find a way over the line. Full-back Faris Pead Azwan Zuwairi rounded off proceedings with the touchline conversion.

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Korea will now host Hong Kong in the final of the Asia Rugby Championship 2022, on 9 July, to determine the side that progresses to meet\u00a0Tonga in the Asia/Pacific Qualifier\u00a0on Australia\u2019s Sunshine Coast on 23 July.

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The winner of that match will take their place in Pool B at Rugby World Cup 2023 along with South Africa, Ireland, Scotland and Europe 2.

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\u201cThis is a big step for Korean rugby historically,\u201d commented Korea\u2019s captain Kim Gwongmin. \u201cA lot of challenges are ahead but with everything put together, with a good team and good instruction, we believe we can beat Hong Kong and then successfully beat Tonga to reach the World Cup.\u201d

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Korea remain 29th in the\u00a0World Rugby Men\u2019s Rankings powered by Capgemini, some 22 places above Malaysia.

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In the other big match taking place in Asia this weekend, Pakistan pipped Thailand to promotion to Division 1 of the Asia Rugby Championship with a thrilling victory in the second match in the two-legged contest.

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Read – Korea Keep their dream alive for a Historic Rugby World Cup Appearance

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Having taken the first encounter 20-15, Thailand had a slight advantage over their much lower-ranked opponents going into the rematch. But by the time the teams turned around for the second half that gap had grown to 14 points.

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Thailand increased their 9-0 half-time lead by a further three points shortly after the restart and all looked lost for Pakistan.

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But with the pack starting to take command and the defence remaining resolute, Pakistan turned the game on its head.

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Tries from Khurram Shahzad, Ali Khan and Asrar Ahmad saw them to a 24-18 victory on the day and a 39-38 win on aggregate.

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While Pakistan\u2019s players were understandably jubilant on hearing the final whistle, Thailand\u2019s disappointment was there for all to see.

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With the victory, Pakistan climb five places up the rankings to 92nd with Thailand dropping down five to 77th.

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The post Korea Through To Next Stage Of Rugby World Cup 2023 Qualification appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Victory in their first fixture for nearly three years sets up a date with Hong Kong on the road to France 2023.\nKorea\u2019s dream of appearing in a first Rugby World Cup remains alive after they defeated Malaysia 55-10 in the opening round of the Asia Rugby Championship 2022 in Incheon on Saturday.\nDominant up front and incisive in the backs, Korea comfortably had the measure of a Malaysian side that kept going until the bitter end.\nOutside centre Kim Hyon Soo, winger Jeong Yeonsik and full-back Chang Yonghueng scored tries in the first half for Korea at the Namdong Asiad Rugby Stadium, with fly-half Kim Kimin missing only one of the three conversions, but the hosts couldn\u2019t add to that score until much later in the game.\nIn the second half, Korea stepped up the pace to score five more tries, two of them by winger and captain Kim Gwongmin. Second-row Shin Dahyeon scored one try and had another disallowed and he was joined on the scoresheet by flanker Choi Seongdeok, scrum-half Chae Minseong and number eight Park Joonyoung. Four of the five tries were converted, one by fly-half Kim Kimin and four by full-back Oh Jimyeong.\n\nCongratulations Korea for a spirited performance with 55 – 10 win over Malaysia Korea will host Hong Kong on the 9th of July #RWC2023 #WorldRugby #AsiaRugby pic.twitter.com/YnEUdXYJp5\n\u2014 Asia Rugby (@asiarugby) June 4, 2022\n\nMalaysia had chances too but it wasn\u2019t until the last minute, when number eight Etonia Saukuru hoodwinked the Korean defence with a try from a well-worked lineout move, that they managed to find a way over the line. Full-back Faris Pead Azwan Zuwairi rounded off proceedings with the touchline conversion.\nKorea will now host Hong Kong in the final of the Asia Rugby Championship 2022, on 9 July, to determine the side that progresses to meet\u00a0Tonga in the Asia/Pacific Qualifier\u00a0on Australia\u2019s Sunshine Coast on 23 July.\nThe winner of that match will take their place in Pool B at Rugby World Cup 2023 along with South Africa, Ireland, Scotland and Europe 2.\n\u201cThis is a big step for Korean rugby historically,\u201d commented Korea\u2019s captain Kim Gwongmin. \u201cA lot of challenges are ahead but with everything put together, with a good team and good instruction, we believe we can beat Hong Kong and then successfully beat Tonga to reach the World Cup.\u201d\nKorea remain 29th in the\u00a0World Rugby Men\u2019s Rankings powered by Capgemini, some 22 places above Malaysia.\nIn the other big match taking place in Asia this weekend, Pakistan pipped Thailand to promotion to Division 1 of the Asia Rugby Championship with a thrilling victory in the second match in the two-legged contest.\nRead – Korea Keep their dream alive for a Historic Rugby World Cup Appearance\nHaving taken the first encounter 20-15, Thailand had a slight advantage over their much lower-ranked opponents going into the rematch. But by the time the teams turned around for the second half that gap had grown to 14 points.\nThailand increased their 9-0 half-time lead by a further three points shortly after the restart and all looked lost for Pakistan.\nBut with the pack starting to take command and the defence remaining resolute, Pakistan turned the game on its head.\nTries from Khurram Shahzad, Ali Khan and Asrar Ahmad saw them to a 24-18 victory on the day and a 39-38 win on aggregate.\nWhile Pakistan\u2019s players were understandably jubilant on hearing the final whistle, Thailand\u2019s disappointment was there for all to see.\nWith the victory, Pakistan climb five places up the rankings to 92nd with Thailand dropping down five to 77th.\nThe post Korea Through To Next Stage Of Rugby World Cup 2023 Qualification appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2022-06-09T21:58:59+08:00", "date_modified": "2022-06-14T18:43:40+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/2022/06/Korea-v-Malaysia.jpg", "tags": [ "Asia Rugby", "Korea Rugby", "Rugby World Cup 2023", "Asia Rugby Championship 2022", "Malaysia Rugby", "Featured", "Asia Rugby Championship", "News", "ARC" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=8771", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2022/06/09/pakistan-promotion-one-of-the-best-experiences-of-my-life-gert-mulder/", "title": "Pakistan promotion \u201cone of the best experiences of my life\u201d \u2013 Gert Mulder", "content_html": "

New head coach helps steer one of the lowest-ranked teams in the world to Division 1 of the Asia Rugby Championship.

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The resumption of the Asia Rugby Championship has been a long time in coming because of COVID-19 but the recent Division 2 play-off final doubleheader between Thailand and Pakistan was well worth the wait.

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After two pulsating ties, just one point separated the sides with Pakistan, under their new head coach Gert Mulder, ultimately celebrating victory, 39-38 on aggregate.

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Pakistan lost the first game 20-15 after leading for the majority of the match despite having one player red-carded and another two sent to the sin-bin.

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And they trailed Thailand for 65 minutes of the second game before completing a stunning comeback victory, by 24 points to 18.

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QUICK TURNAROUND

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\u201cIt is something massive, and I am happy to have been a part of that. It is one of the best experiences of my life, especially because nobody was giving us a chance and we had a really, really short time to prepare with just three weekend-long camps,\u201d Mulder said.

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\u201cWhat the players achieved in those three weeks was outstanding. We didn\u2019t think they would get the concepts so quickly but they bought into what we wanted them to do straight away. It was awesome and it was all due to great leadership on the field.

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\u201cThailand were by far the favourites. They have got a very good sevens programme and their skill level was much better than ours,” added Mulder.

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\u201cWe knew that and we worked very hard on getting our skill levels up and focused more on the set-pieces because Pakistan\u2019s players are a little bit bigger. We didn\u2019t lose one lineout and won all our scrums and took a few balls off theirs.

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Read – Pakistan Crowned Division II Champions, Prevail in Lahore Thriller: Stun Thailand 24 \u2013 18 in Final Test, Clinch Championship by Solitary Point

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\u201cIn the first match, we had yellow cards and a red card. It was bad discipline why we lost the first match. We should have won that one as well but we won the one we needed to win.

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\u201cWe missed out on a few try-scoring opportunities in the first half and they put us under immense pressure, running the ball, but we\u2019d prepared knowing how they were going to play and they failed to score a try against us in the second match which we were very pleased about.

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\u201cIt is awesome for them that they are going into Division 1. It is the first time ever Pakistan have beaten Thailand. In the previous match, they lost by nearly 50 points (44-0).\u201d

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NEW FRONTIERS

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Mulder, the Vice President of Blues Bulls Rugby Union in South Africa, was made aware of the opportunity to coach Pakistan by Springbok legend, Naas Botha.

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\u201cHe\u2019s\u00a0running rugby in India, and I know him very well and he phoned me one day and said, \u2018do you want to go and coach in Pakistan?\u2019 I said, \u2018are you crazy, do they even play rugby there?\u2019. Then I said, \u2018let\u2019s see how it pans out\u2019,\u201d he explained.

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\u201cThey asked for my CV and I was on a shortlist of eight coaches and they interviewed three and they offered it to me so I took it for the experience.

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\u201cI\u2019ve been coaching rugby for 35 years now, from schoolboy level to club and provincial level and it\u2019s totally different.

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\u201cIn South Africa, you start playing rugby at six years old, here it is much later.

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\u201cAlthough they have been playing rugby for 20 years, they only have four clubs and they all play a one-dimensional type of game.

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Read More – Korea Keep their dream alive for a Historic Rugby World Cup Appearance

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\u201cCricket is so huge there, they need to grow the game. Luckily these matches were broadcast by television so that helps a lot in the marketing of rugby as a sport.\u201d

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Pakistan\u2019s victory not only caused ripples of interest in a cricket-mad country but also led to a shake-up of the\u00a0World Rugby Men\u2019s Rankings, with a move of five places up the table to 92nd.

\n

\u201cThey are super-committed and hard working. If they get more opportunities to play and more exposure, they will go further up the rankings.\u201d

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The post Pakistan promotion \u201cone of the best experiences of my life\u201d \u2013 Gert Mulder appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "New head coach helps steer one of the lowest-ranked teams in the world to Division 1 of the Asia Rugby Championship.\nThe resumption of the Asia Rugby Championship has been a long time in coming because of COVID-19 but the recent Division 2 play-off final doubleheader between Thailand and Pakistan was well worth the wait.\nAfter two pulsating ties, just one point separated the sides with Pakistan, under their new head coach Gert Mulder, ultimately celebrating victory, 39-38 on aggregate.\n \nPakistan lost the first game 20-15 after leading for the majority of the match despite having one player red-carded and another two sent to the sin-bin.\nAnd they trailed Thailand for 65 minutes of the second game before completing a stunning comeback victory, by 24 points to 18.\nQUICK TURNAROUND\n\u201cIt is something massive, and I am happy to have been a part of that. It is one of the best experiences of my life, especially because nobody was giving us a chance and we had a really, really short time to prepare with just three weekend-long camps,\u201d Mulder said.\n\u201cWhat the players achieved in those three weeks was outstanding. We didn\u2019t think they would get the concepts so quickly but they bought into what we wanted them to do straight away. It was awesome and it was all due to great leadership on the field.\n\u201cThailand were by far the favourites. They have got a very good sevens programme and their skill level was much better than ours,” added Mulder.\n\u201cWe knew that and we worked very hard on getting our skill levels up and focused more on the set-pieces because Pakistan\u2019s players are a little bit bigger. We didn\u2019t lose one lineout and won all our scrums and took a few balls off theirs.\nRead – Pakistan Crowned Division II Champions, Prevail in Lahore Thriller: Stun Thailand 24 \u2013 18 in Final Test, Clinch Championship by Solitary Point\n\u201cIn the first match, we had yellow cards and a red card. It was bad discipline why we lost the first match. We should have won that one as well but we won the one we needed to win.\n\u201cWe missed out on a few try-scoring opportunities in the first half and they put us under immense pressure, running the ball, but we\u2019d prepared knowing how they were going to play and they failed to score a try against us in the second match which we were very pleased about.\n\u201cIt is awesome for them that they are going into Division 1. It is the first time ever Pakistan have beaten Thailand. In the previous match, they lost by nearly 50 points (44-0).\u201d\nNEW FRONTIERS\nMulder, the Vice President of Blues Bulls Rugby Union in South Africa, was made aware of the opportunity to coach Pakistan by Springbok legend, Naas Botha.\n\u201cHe\u2019s\u00a0running rugby in India, and I know him very well and he phoned me one day and said, \u2018do you want to go and coach in Pakistan?\u2019 I said, \u2018are you crazy, do they even play rugby there?\u2019. Then I said, \u2018let\u2019s see how it pans out\u2019,\u201d he explained.\n\u201cThey asked for my CV and I was on a shortlist of eight coaches and they interviewed three and they offered it to me so I took it for the experience.\n\u201cI\u2019ve been coaching rugby for 35 years now, from schoolboy level to club and provincial level and it\u2019s totally different.\n\u201cIn South Africa, you start playing rugby at six years old, here it is much later.\n\u201cAlthough they have been playing rugby for 20 years, they only have four clubs and they all play a one-dimensional type of game.\nRead More – Korea Keep their dream alive for a Historic Rugby World Cup Appearance\n\u201cCricket is so huge there, they need to grow the game. Luckily these matches were broadcast by television so that helps a lot in the marketing of rugby as a sport.\u201d\nPakistan\u2019s victory not only caused ripples of interest in a cricket-mad country but also led to a shake-up of the\u00a0World Rugby Men\u2019s Rankings, with a move of five places up the table to 92nd.\n\u201cThey are super-committed and hard working. If they get more opportunities to play and more exposure, they will go further up the rankings.\u201d\nThe post Pakistan promotion \u201cone of the best experiences of my life\u201d \u2013 Gert Mulder appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2022-06-09T21:54:24+08:00", "date_modified": "2022-06-14T00:52:26+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/2022/06/New-head-coach-helps-steer-one-of-the-lowest-ranked-teams-in-the-world-to-Division-1-of-the-Asia-Rugby-Championship..jpg", "tags": [ "Pakistan", "Asia Rugby Championship", "Gert Mulder", "Pakistan Rugby", "Thailand Rugby", "Featured", "News", "ARC" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=8723", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2022/05/29/pakistan-thailand/", "title": "Pakistan & Thailand Lock Horns in Asia Rugby Division II Clash in Lahore", "content_html": "

Pakistan & Thailand Lock Horns in Asia Rugby Division II Clash in Lahore

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Asia Rugby Returns to Play: Division II Match Marks First Asia Rugby Test after 1,064 Days

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\u00a0Pakistan and Thailand are all set to battle for a chance at promotion to Asia Rugby\u2019s top tier Championship in a two-test Division II clash in Pakistan getting underway on Sunday 29th May, with the second Test to be played on 1st June, 2022.

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Results and Fixture: Asia Rugby Men’s Division 2 2022

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\"PakistanThis leg of the Championship represents a landmark as far Asia Rugby\u2019s post-pandemic \u2018Return to Play\u2019 strategy: it marks 1,064 days since Asia Rugby last hosted a test match. \u201cThree years is a long time for a sport to be dormant. It is great for Asia Rugby\u2026 to get back on track again. If you want to grow the game, you must see some great international clashes to showcase the best talent available. Giving players the opportunity to grow and test themselves against the best,\u201d comments Pakistan Head Coach Gert Mulder.

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Mulder, who is overjoyed at the prospect of his team returning to the field, adds: \u201cWe saw back in my home country, South Africa, that we had a huge increase in player numbers on all levels getting back on the rugby fields after Covid. I believe we will see the same phenomenon all over the world. That said, I do not think it was difficult to get players on the pitch again; they want to play and they want to represent their country. The main concern was to get the players strength and conditioning up to standard to prevent injuries and get the players battle ready.\u201d

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Things are heating up in Lahore in every sense as anticipation, preparations and excitement peak ahead of the first Test. The Pakistan Rugby Union hosted a press conference the day before the opening fixture, which was well covered by both the electronic and print media.

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Both matches are being played at the Punjab Stadium in Lahore, commencing at 7.30 p.m. local time. Entry for the public is free and all officials and players at the Press Conference warmly welcomed Lahoris to come experience the excitement of international rugby in their own back yard.

\n

\"\"

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Moreover, Pakistan Captain Hammad Safdar and PRU President Arif Saeed encouraged the public to come to the stadium to support the national team in these crucial encounters. The matches will also be live-streamed on Asia Rugby\u2019s Facebook and Youtube pages. Click on the link below to catch all the action LIVE:
\nhttps://www.asiarugby.com/videos/

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The post Pakistan & Thailand Lock Horns in Asia Rugby Division II Clash in Lahore appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Pakistan & Thailand Lock Horns in Asia Rugby Division II Clash in Lahore\nAsia Rugby Returns to Play: Division II Match Marks First Asia Rugby Test after 1,064 Days\n\u00a0Pakistan and Thailand are all set to battle for a chance at promotion to Asia Rugby\u2019s top tier Championship in a two-test Division II clash in Pakistan getting underway on Sunday 29th May, with the second Test to be played on 1st June, 2022.\nResults and Fixture: Asia Rugby Men’s Division 2 2022\nThis leg of the Championship represents a landmark as far Asia Rugby\u2019s post-pandemic \u2018Return to Play\u2019 strategy: it marks 1,064 days since Asia Rugby last hosted a test match. \u201cThree years is a long time for a sport to be dormant. It is great for Asia Rugby\u2026 to get back on track again. If you want to grow the game, you must see some great international clashes to showcase the best talent available. Giving players the opportunity to grow and test themselves against the best,\u201d comments Pakistan Head Coach Gert Mulder.\nMulder, who is overjoyed at the prospect of his team returning to the field, adds: \u201cWe saw back in my home country, South Africa, that we had a huge increase in player numbers on all levels getting back on the rugby fields after Covid. I believe we will see the same phenomenon all over the world. That said, I do not think it was difficult to get players on the pitch again; they want to play and they want to represent their country. The main concern was to get the players strength and conditioning up to standard to prevent injuries and get the players battle ready.\u201d\nThings are heating up in Lahore in every sense as anticipation, preparations and excitement peak ahead of the first Test. The Pakistan Rugby Union hosted a press conference the day before the opening fixture, which was well covered by both the electronic and print media.\nBoth matches are being played at the Punjab Stadium in Lahore, commencing at 7.30 p.m. local time. Entry for the public is free and all officials and players at the Press Conference warmly welcomed Lahoris to come experience the excitement of international rugby in their own back yard.\n\nMoreover, Pakistan Captain Hammad Safdar and PRU President Arif Saeed encouraged the public to come to the stadium to support the national team in these crucial encounters. The matches will also be live-streamed on Asia Rugby\u2019s Facebook and Youtube pages. Click on the link below to catch all the action LIVE:\nhttps://www.asiarugby.com/videos/\nThe post Pakistan & Thailand Lock Horns in Asia Rugby Division II Clash in Lahore appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2022-05-29T09:24:29+08:00", "date_modified": "2022-05-29T09:24:29+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/2022/05/ar2.jpg", "tags": [ "ARC", "ARC2022", "#ARMD2", "Featured", "Asia Rugby Championship", "Live Streaming" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=7681", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2020/12/13/2021-competitions/", "title": "Asia Rugby Announces 2021 Competitions Calendar", "content_html": "

Asia Rugby confirmed the commencement of the year 2021 competitions with Hong Kong hosting the Asia Rugby Women’s Championship (ARWC) which was initially scheduled for 2020, the championship will also be considered as the qualifiers for the Rugby World Cup 2021 scheduled for September 2021\u00a0 in New Zealand.

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Link to >>>>>>Asia Rugby Calendar 2021

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The WRWC 2021 qualifiers will feature Hong Kong, Kazakstan and Japan with the winners awarded Asia\u2019s direct spot into and placed in Pool B alongside Canada USA and Europe 1.

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\"2021
Photo by Ike Li / ikeimages
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Another highlight of the year will be the Asia Rugby Men\u2019s Championship (ARMC) which is a qualification pathway tournament for the Rugby World Cup 2023 in France, with Japan already securing a spot after reaching the Quarterfinals in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

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Related Article: Over two million new rugby participants in Asia shows impact beyond Rugby World Cup 2019

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The winner of the 2021 ARMC will play Oceania 2 in a one-off game which will be hosted by the team with the highest ranking, with the winner securing a direct spot in the RWC 2023, and the loser going to the final qualification tournament.

\n
\"Asia
Photo by : Ike Li / Ike Images
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The ARMC is scheduled to be played in a home and away matches that are planned to start on the\u00a0 5th of May at the Namdong Asiad Stadium, Incheon in South Korea until 26th of June at the Hong Kong Football Club stadium in Hong Kong.

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The iconic Asia Rugby Sevens Series is scheduled over 3 legs, with the series being played in South Korea, China and Sri Lanka, from August to September.

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\"Asia

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The Asia Rugby U19 Men\u2019s Fifteens Tournament being postponed from 2020 to commence on 31 March 2021 will serve as the pathway to the Junior World Trophy 2021, featuring Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong.

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Asia Rugby Competitions Committee has been engaged constantly with unions in planning the 2021 Competitions Calendar and continues to work closely with the Player Welfare and Medical Committee and relevant stakeholders to monitor the updates and effects of the COVID19 pandemic,\u00a0 ensuring that the competitions are held with all relevant safety measures in place.

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Asia Rugby President, Mr Qais Al Dhalai said: \u201cWe are very excited about the Return of Rugby across Asia,\u00a0 some of our unions have already kicked off their domestic tournaments and it\u2019s the time now for international rugby as well\u201d

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\"\"

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He added \u201cAsia Rugby is fully committed to the health and safety of players, fans and everyone working on the events which will always be our top priority and will keep monitoring the region\u2019s health situation closely to implement the ideal protocols. As always, Asia Rugby will ensure that it\u2019s longstanding guiding principles of\u00a0 Equality, Transparency and\u00a0 Accountability in all aspect of the game are fully exercised across the region\u201d

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\"2021

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He further added, \u201cAsia Rugby has also explored various innovative opportunities aiming at serving its member unions and fans in the forms of Beach Rugby, and Snow Rugby\u201d

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The post Asia Rugby Announces 2021 Competitions Calendar appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Asia Rugby confirmed the commencement of the year 2021 competitions with Hong Kong hosting the Asia Rugby Women’s Championship (ARWC) which was initially scheduled for 2020, the championship will also be considered as the qualifiers for the Rugby World Cup 2021 scheduled for September 2021\u00a0 in New Zealand.\nLink to >>>>>>Asia Rugby Calendar 2021\nThe WRWC 2021 qualifiers will feature Hong Kong, Kazakstan and Japan with the winners awarded Asia\u2019s direct spot into and placed in Pool B alongside Canada USA and Europe 1.\nPhoto by Ike Li / ikeimages\nAnother highlight of the year will be the Asia Rugby Men\u2019s Championship (ARMC) which is a qualification pathway tournament for the Rugby World Cup 2023 in France, with Japan already securing a spot after reaching the Quarterfinals in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.\nRelated Article: Over two million new rugby participants in Asia shows impact beyond Rugby World Cup 2019\nThe winner of the 2021 ARMC will play Oceania 2 in a one-off game which will be hosted by the team with the highest ranking, with the winner securing a direct spot in the RWC 2023, and the loser going to the final qualification tournament.\nPhoto by : Ike Li / Ike Images\nThe ARMC is scheduled to be played in a home and away matches that are planned to start on the\u00a0 5th of May at the Namdong Asiad Stadium, Incheon in South Korea until 26th of June at the Hong Kong Football Club stadium in Hong Kong.\nThe iconic Asia Rugby Sevens Series is scheduled over 3 legs, with the series being played in South Korea, China and Sri Lanka, from August to September.\n\nThe Asia Rugby U19 Men\u2019s Fifteens Tournament being postponed from 2020 to commence on 31 March 2021 will serve as the pathway to the Junior World Trophy 2021, featuring Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong.\nAsia Rugby Competitions Committee has been engaged constantly with unions in planning the 2021 Competitions Calendar and continues to work closely with the Player Welfare and Medical Committee and relevant stakeholders to monitor the updates and effects of the COVID19 pandemic,\u00a0 ensuring that the competitions are held with all relevant safety measures in place.\nAsia Rugby President, Mr Qais Al Dhalai said: \u201cWe are very excited about the Return of Rugby across Asia,\u00a0 some of our unions have already kicked off their domestic tournaments and it\u2019s the time now for international rugby as well\u201d\n\nHe added \u201cAsia Rugby is fully committed to the health and safety of players, fans and everyone working on the events which will always be our top priority and will keep monitoring the region\u2019s health situation closely to implement the ideal protocols. As always, Asia Rugby will ensure that it\u2019s longstanding guiding principles of\u00a0 Equality, Transparency and\u00a0 Accountability in all aspect of the game are fully exercised across the region\u201d\n\nHe further added, \u201cAsia Rugby has also explored various innovative opportunities aiming at serving its member unions and fans in the forms of Beach Rugby, and Snow Rugby\u201d\n \nThe post Asia Rugby Announces 2021 Competitions Calendar appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2020-12-13T18:45:28+08:00", "date_modified": "2020-12-13T21:30:56+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/2020/12/2021.jpg", "tags": [ "Featured", "Qais Al-Dhalai", "Asia Rugby u19", "Tokyo 2020", "Asia Rugby Championship", "Asia Rugby Sevens Series", "Asia Rugby Women\u2019s Championship", "ARC", "Rugby World Cup 2023", "World Rugby" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=5283", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2018/12/31/2018-asia-rugby-tournaments-standing-15s/", "title": "2018 Asia Rugby Tournaments Standing 15s", "content_html": "

2018 Men\u2019s & Women\u2019s 15s Placings

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\n

#ARC
\nAsia Rugby Championship

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Hong Kong make history in ARC decider

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Hong Kong beat Korea 39-5 at the Hong Kong Football Club to claim their first-ever Asia Rugby Championship title. On a historic day for the hosts, their win saw them go unbeaten in this year\u2019s Top 3

\n

\"\"

\n

1\u00a0 Hong Kong
\n2\u00a0 Korea
\n3\u00a0 Malaysia

\n

 

\n

#ARWC
\nAsia Rugby Women\u2019s Championship
\nWomen’s Division 1

\n

Singapore claim Division I title with win against the Philippines

\n

Singapore beat the Philippines 19-10 to lift the Asia Rugby Women\u2019s Championship Division I title. With both sides having beaten India earlier in the tournament, this was a winner-takes-all clash at Queenstown Stadium. The hosts went into the match as the slight favourites due to their higher …

\n

\"\"

\n

1\u00a0Singapore
\n2\u00a0Philippines
\n3 India

\n

 

\n

 

\n

\"\"

\n

#ARC

\n

Division 1\u00a0
\n

\n

Red-hot Volcanoes enjoy rankings rise

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Back-to-back victories over Singapore have resulted in the Philippines clinching the Asia Rugby Championship Division I title and a three-place rise in the World Rugby Rankings.

\n

1 Philippines
\n2 Singapore

\n

 

\n

Division 2\u00a0

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Chinese Taipei take Division II title, Thailand v Chinese Taipei

\n

\u00a0Chinese Taipei beat Thailand 28-21 in an enthralling Asia Rugby Championship Division II encounter to take this year\u2019s title.

\n

1 Chinese Taipei
\n2Thailand
\n3 India

\n

 

\n

Division 3

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\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Div. 3 WestDiv. 3 EastDiv. 3\u00a0 Central
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Lebanon defend ARC Div III W title #ARC2018

\n		\n

Guam claim ARC Division III East title after impressing against China

\n		\n

Kazakhstan Wins Asia Rugby Championship\u00a0 Div3 Central Final\u00a0

\n
1Lebanon1Guam1Kazakhstan
2Iran2China2Pakistan
3Qatar3Brunei3Mongolia
4Jordan4Kyrgyzstan
\n

The post 2018 Asia Rugby Tournaments Standing 15s appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "2018 Men\u2019s & Women\u2019s 15s Placings\n \n#ARC\nAsia Rugby Championship\nHong Kong make history in ARC decider\nHong Kong beat Korea 39-5 at the Hong Kong Football Club to claim their first-ever Asia Rugby Championship title. On a historic day for the hosts, their win saw them go unbeaten in this year\u2019s Top 3\n\n1\u00a0 Hong Kong\n2\u00a0 Korea\n3\u00a0 Malaysia\n \n#ARWC\nAsia Rugby Women\u2019s Championship\nWomen’s Division 1\nSingapore claim Division I title with win against the Philippines\nSingapore beat the Philippines 19-10 to lift the Asia Rugby Women\u2019s Championship Division I title. With both sides having beaten India earlier in the tournament, this was a winner-takes-all clash at Queenstown Stadium. The hosts went into the match as the slight favourites due to their higher …\n\n1\u00a0Singapore\n2\u00a0Philippines\n3 India\n \n \n\n#ARC\nDivision 1\u00a0\n\nRed-hot Volcanoes enjoy rankings rise\nBack-to-back victories over Singapore have resulted in the Philippines clinching the Asia Rugby Championship Division I title and a three-place rise in the World Rugby Rankings.\n1 Philippines\n2 Singapore\n \nDivision 2\u00a0\nChinese Taipei take Division II title, Thailand v Chinese Taipei\n\u00a0Chinese Taipei beat Thailand 28-21 in an enthralling Asia Rugby Championship Division II encounter to take this year\u2019s title.\n1 Chinese Taipei\n2Thailand\n3 India\n \nDivision 3\n\n\n\n\n\nDiv. 3 West\n\nDiv. 3 East\n\nDiv. 3\u00a0 Central\n\n\n\n\nLebanon defend ARC Div III W title #ARC2018\n\n\n\nGuam claim ARC Division III East title after impressing against China\n\n\n\nKazakhstan Wins Asia Rugby Championship\u00a0 Div3 Central Final\u00a0\n\n\n\n1\nLebanon\n1\nGuam\n1\nKazakhstan\n\n\n2\nIran\n2\nChina\n2\nPakistan\n\n\n3\nQatar\n3\nBrunei\n3\nMongolia\n\n\n4\nJordan\n\n\n4\nKyrgyzstan\n\n\n\nThe post 2018 Asia Rugby Tournaments Standing 15s appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2018-12-31T10:54:38+08:00", "date_modified": "2019-02-21T00:32:48+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/2018/06/AK3T7799-e1546224550622.jpg", "tags": [ "Asia Rugby Championship", "News", "ARC" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=4179", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2018/06/22/philippines-aim-to-claim-first-division-i-title-since-2012/", "title": "Philippines aim to claim first Division I title since 2012", "content_html": "

With two matches to determine the Asia Rugby Division I champion, all eyes will be on Manila this week.

\n

The Philippines host Singapore, with the winner claiming the coveted Division I title that was won by Malaysia in 2017.

\n

Ranked two places below Singapore, the Philippines are slight underdogs but will have the home advantage.

\n

\"Philippines

\n

Captain Steve Howorth and his side have been preparing with many training camps, and is looking for a \u2018special\u2019 performance from his team.

\n

\u201cI am hoping we can dominate in the forwards, so we can let our backs work their magic,\u201d said Howorth.

\n

\u201cWe have a big strong forward pack and exciting backs, and to come into camp and put this special group of players together in such a short time, to come away with a win would mean everything.

\n

\u201cIt would make our sacrifice worth it, representing our family and country.\u201d

\n

One of the coaches Austin Lolo Dacanay is also gearing up for the tournament, with 12 new players set to take part.

\n

\u201cAs a coach and having 12 debutants is trying to get everyone on the same page on everyone ready to go,\u201d added Dacanay.

\n
\"Asia
Philippines vs Sri Lanka. Photo by Mark Cristino
\n

\u201cBut we are looking for a Championship and to bring another one back home for the first time since 2012.\u201d

\n

The search for the Championship is a sentiment echoed by Justin Coveney and all are aware of the impact it could have on rugby in the country.

\n

\u201cIt will be a good reward to win, obviously individually over the last year and as a team over the last week,\u201d said Coveney.

\n

\u201cBut more so it will bring more awareness and exposure to the game in the Philippines, so that more people know about it, try it, and hopefully get more Filipino kids trying and playing the game.\u201d

\n

 

\n

The post Philippines aim to claim first Division I title since 2012 appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "With two matches to determine the Asia Rugby Division I champion, all eyes will be on Manila this week.\nThe Philippines host Singapore, with the winner claiming the coveted Division I title that was won by Malaysia in 2017.\nRanked two places below Singapore, the Philippines are slight underdogs but will have the home advantage.\n\nCaptain Steve Howorth and his side have been preparing with many training camps, and is looking for a \u2018special\u2019 performance from his team.\n\u201cI am hoping we can dominate in the forwards, so we can let our backs work their magic,\u201d said Howorth.\n\u201cWe have a big strong forward pack and exciting backs, and to come into camp and put this special group of players together in such a short time, to come away with a win would mean everything.\n\u201cIt would make our sacrifice worth it, representing our family and country.\u201d\nOne of the coaches Austin Lolo Dacanay is also gearing up for the tournament, with 12 new players set to take part.\n\u201cAs a coach and having 12 debutants is trying to get everyone on the same page on everyone ready to go,\u201d added Dacanay.\nPhilippines vs Sri Lanka. Photo by Mark Cristino\n\u201cBut we are looking for a Championship and to bring another one back home for the first time since 2012.\u201d\nThe search for the Championship is a sentiment echoed by Justin Coveney and all are aware of the impact it could have on rugby in the country.\n\u201cIt will be a good reward to win, obviously individually over the last year and as a team over the last week,\u201d said Coveney.\n\u201cBut more so it will bring more awareness and exposure to the game in the Philippines, so that more people know about it, try it, and hopefully get more Filipino kids trying and playing the game.\u201d\n \nThe post Philippines aim to claim first Division I title since 2012 appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2018-06-22T07:05:13+08:00", "date_modified": "2018-08-17T21:17:30+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/2018/06/phillipines-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Philippines", "Asia Rugby Championship", "News", "ARC" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=4174", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2018/06/22/singapore-eye-division-i-title-arc2018/", "title": "Singapore eye Division I title #ARC2018", "content_html": "

\u00a0Singapore and the Philippines face each other in two matches that will determine the ARC Division I champions this week.

\n

On 23 and 26 June, the two sides will go head-to-head to take the coveted title.

\n

Ranked just two places ahead of the Philippines (56th), Singapore (54th) travel to Manila for the two matches with one eye on seeing the hard work pay off according to captain Gaspar Tan.

\n

\"Singapore

\n

\u201cIt has been a good lead up to the tournament, most of the team are from last year\u2019s campaign and we have managed to retain the same management team, with the addition of former England 7s international John Brake as our backs coach,\u201d said Tan.

\n

\u201cWe obviously are here to compete and win. It is a shame that the tournament has only two teams this year, but we are focused on our own jobs to perform on the field and the ambition is to cement our place in Division 1 for this year.\u201d

\n

Rugby is also on an upward curve in Singapore, with the Singapore Sevens taking centre stage each year, and the recent Asia Rugby Women\u2019s Championship drawing in the crowds.

\n

\u201cRugby is definitely growing in Singapore with more and more junior rugby clubs coming up, and also more participation at the junior and school level,\u201d added Tan.

\n

\u201cThe Singapore Rugby Union is working hard at developing the women\u2019s game as well \u2013 hosting the recent Women\u2019s ARC Division 1 and overall we are placed to grow, both as a participation and spectator sport. The latter especially with the HSBC World 7s series on our doorstep.\u201d

\n

\"\"

\n

And what would it mean to win the tournament for Tan?

\n

\u201cIt would be a tremendous honour for the team, and for Singapore Rugby. We have worked hard as a group.

\n
\"Singapore
Singapore Rugby
\n

\u201cWith the support from the Union we are best placed to do our best and we want to play to the best of the abilities. If we win it would mean we are back in the top division and we intend to stay here.

\n

\u201cRugby has given us all a lot and it has personally developed my life skills and given me the ability to lead and work within a team \u2013 it is a great love affair for me.\u201d

\n

The post Singapore eye Division I title #ARC2018 appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "\u00a0Singapore and the Philippines face each other in two matches that will determine the ARC Division I champions this week.\nOn 23 and 26 June, the two sides will go head-to-head to take the coveted title.\nRanked just two places ahead of the Philippines (56th), Singapore (54th) travel to Manila for the two matches with one eye on seeing the hard work pay off according to captain Gaspar Tan.\n\n\u201cIt has been a good lead up to the tournament, most of the team are from last year\u2019s campaign and we have managed to retain the same management team, with the addition of former England 7s international John Brake as our backs coach,\u201d said Tan.\n\u201cWe obviously are here to compete and win. It is a shame that the tournament has only two teams this year, but we are focused on our own jobs to perform on the field and the ambition is to cement our place in Division 1 for this year.\u201d\nRugby is also on an upward curve in Singapore, with the Singapore Sevens taking centre stage each year, and the recent Asia Rugby Women\u2019s Championship drawing in the crowds.\n\u201cRugby is definitely growing in Singapore with more and more junior rugby clubs coming up, and also more participation at the junior and school level,\u201d added Tan.\n\u201cThe Singapore Rugby Union is working hard at developing the women\u2019s game as well \u2013 hosting the recent Women\u2019s ARC Division 1 and overall we are placed to grow, both as a participation and spectator sport. The latter especially with the HSBC World 7s series on our doorstep.\u201d\n\nAnd what would it mean to win the tournament for Tan?\n\u201cIt would be a tremendous honour for the team, and for Singapore Rugby. We have worked hard as a group.\nSingapore Rugby\n\u201cWith the support from the Union we are best placed to do our best and we want to play to the best of the abilities. If we win it would mean we are back in the top division and we intend to stay here.\n\u201cRugby has given us all a lot and it has personally developed my life skills and given me the ability to lead and work within a team \u2013 it is a great love affair for me.\u201d\nThe post Singapore eye Division I title #ARC2018 appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2018-06-22T06:52:30+08:00", "date_modified": "2018-08-17T21:16:58+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/2018/06/Singapore.jpg", "tags": [ "Singapore", "D1", "ARC2018", "Asia Rugby Championship", "News", "ARC" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=4112", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2018/06/02/asia-rugby-championship-4/", "title": "Hong Kong make history in ARC decider and keep Rugby World Cup dream alive", "content_html": "

Hong Kong beat Korea 39-5 at the Hong Kong Football Club to claim their first-ever Asia Rugby Championship title.

\n

On an historic day for the hosts, their win saw them go unbeaten in this year\u2019s Top 3 and, as well as lifting the ARC trophy, qualify for the next stage of Rugby World Cup qualification.

\n

Having won this year\u2019s tournament Hong Kong now face the Cook Islands in a home and away play-off. The winner of that will then head to the final RWC repechage for a chance to take the coveted 20th and last place at next year\u2019s event.

\n

Captain James Cunningham said: \u201cI am ecstatic, the boys really put in there. We started fast and the Koreans couldn\u2019t keep up with us.

\n

\u201cIt is great to move on, we have done exactly what we needed to do, scored some great tries and done exactly what we needed to do.

\n

\u201cIt feels unreal, it is a real historic moment today for Hong Kong to win their first ARC, and to go on to face the Cook Islands now is a great. We have done something special today and are all looking forward to the next trip.\u201d

\n

On a sweltering day at the Hong Kong Football Club, Hong Kong came out of the blocks in impressive fashion and never really looked back, with Korea starved of possession and territory throughout the opening forty minutes.

\n

Matthew Rosslee continued his impressive form and scored Hong Kong\u2019s first try before Liam Slatem added their second after a fine break from Jack Neville.

\n

In his 44th international Yiu Kam Shing scored their third and, despite Toby Fenn\u2019s effort being ruled out, Slatem\u2019s second try after a powerful break from Conor Hartley secured the all-important bonus point for Hong Kong with a 31-0 lead at half-time.

\n

The heat took its toll in the second half and Korea limited Hong Kong to just one penalty in the first 10 minutes and scored their first try of the match minutes later.

\n

After a sustained period of possession and a number of penalties, the visitors managed to get on the score sheet through captain Yong Seung Lee who stormed over.

\n

But the damage had been done and despite Korea looking stronger in the second half, Jamie Lauder scored Hong Kong\u2019s only try in the second half with five minutes to go to add icing to the cake.

\n

Hong Kong now travel to the Cook Islands on 30 June before hosting them a week later on 7 July, with the winner heading to the repechage in November.

\n

The post Hong Kong make history in ARC decider and keep Rugby World Cup dream alive appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Hong Kong beat Korea 39-5 at the Hong Kong Football Club to claim their first-ever Asia Rugby Championship title.\nOn an historic day for the hosts, their win saw them go unbeaten in this year\u2019s Top 3 and, as well as lifting the ARC trophy, qualify for the next stage of Rugby World Cup qualification.\nHaving won this year\u2019s tournament Hong Kong now face the Cook Islands in a home and away play-off. The winner of that will then head to the final RWC repechage for a chance to take the coveted 20th and last place at next year\u2019s event.\nCaptain James Cunningham said: \u201cI am ecstatic, the boys really put in there. We started fast and the Koreans couldn\u2019t keep up with us.\n\u201cIt is great to move on, we have done exactly what we needed to do, scored some great tries and done exactly what we needed to do.\n\u201cIt feels unreal, it is a real historic moment today for Hong Kong to win their first ARC, and to go on to face the Cook Islands now is a great. We have done something special today and are all looking forward to the next trip.\u201d\nOn a sweltering day at the Hong Kong Football Club, Hong Kong came out of the blocks in impressive fashion and never really looked back, with Korea starved of possession and territory throughout the opening forty minutes.\nMatthew Rosslee continued his impressive form and scored Hong Kong\u2019s first try before Liam Slatem added their second after a fine break from Jack Neville.\nIn his 44th international Yiu Kam Shing scored their third and, despite Toby Fenn\u2019s effort being ruled out, Slatem\u2019s second try after a powerful break from Conor Hartley secured the all-important bonus point for Hong Kong with a 31-0 lead at half-time.\nThe heat took its toll in the second half and Korea limited Hong Kong to just one penalty in the first 10 minutes and scored their first try of the match minutes later.\nAfter a sustained period of possession and a number of penalties, the visitors managed to get on the score sheet through captain Yong Seung Lee who stormed over.\nBut the damage had been done and despite Korea looking stronger in the second half, Jamie Lauder scored Hong Kong\u2019s only try in the second half with five minutes to go to add icing to the cake.\nHong Kong now travel to the Cook Islands on 30 June before hosting them a week later on 7 July, with the winner heading to the repechage in November.\nThe post Hong Kong make history in ARC decider and keep Rugby World Cup dream alive appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2018-06-02T18:19:48+08:00", "date_modified": "2018-08-17T21:15:47+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/2018/06/image1-e1527936221834.jpg", "tags": [ "Hong Kong", "Korea", "Asia Rugby Championship", "News", "ARC" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=4058", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2018/06/01/hong-kong-v-korea-3/", "title": "Hong Kong V Korea: Teams named for crucial Top 3 finale", "content_html": "

Hong Kong V Korea,\u00a0The teams have been named for the upcoming Asia Rugby Championship Top 3 finale between Korea and Hong Kong.

\n

For hosts Hong Kong they know a win will ensure they win a first-ever Top 3 and progress to face the Cook Islands in the next stage of Rugby World Cup 2019 qualification.

\n

\"Hong

\n

Having rested several players for their victory against Malaysia head coach Leigh Jones makes no fewer than 12 changes as well as two positional changes.

\n

In the forwards Nick Hewson is the only player to retain his place with all other seven positions changes including the inclusion of captain James Cunningham.

\n

In the backs, Conor Hartley is rewarded for his hat-trick with a spot on the opposite wingm while Matthew Rosslee switches from centre back to fly-half.

\n

\u201cThe big picture is definitely the world cup, and there a couple of steps on the way there,\u201d said Cunningham.

\n

\u201cThe last win over Korea gave us an idea of where we are and what we have to work on going forward.

\n

\u201cThey have a big pack and it will be similar to the packs we will come up against if we do make it to the repechage with the likes of Canada, so it\u2019s a good test and shows us where we need to work on and areas we need to get stronger in.\u201d

\n

For the visitors Korea there are four changes and two positional from the side that beat Malaysia on home soil two weeks ago.

\n

\"\"

\n

In the forwards Jin Seok Lee comes into the second row alongside Seok Hwan Jang, while Taeh Yeon Kang plays at tighthead prop.

\n

In the backs Seon Gu Kim will play at centre with the impressive Seong Min Jang switch to outside centre.

\n

On the wings there is also a starting position for Nam Uk Kim, as Korea look to bounce back from their last meeting with Hong Kong \u2013 a 30-21 defeat in Incheon in round three of the ARC Top 3.

\n

You can watch all of the match live on Asia Rugby\u2019s Facebook page, at this link: bit.ly/ARC-Live

\n

Hong Kong XV for match Hong Kong V Korea

\n

15. Rob Keith, 14. Kam Shing Yiu, 13. Jack Neville, 12. Max Woodward, 11. Conor Hartley, 10. Matthew Rosslee, 9. Liam Slatem, 8. Thomas Lamboley, 7. Toby Fenn, 6. Nick Hewson, 5. Kyle Sullivan, 4. James Cunningham, 3. Dylan Rogers, 2. Ben Roberts, 1. Dan Barlow

\n

Korea XV for match Hong Kong V Korea

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15. Jae Bok Lee, 14. Jeong Min Jang, 13. Seong Min Jang, 12. Seon Gu Kim 11. Nam Uk Kim, 10. Youn Hyung Oh, 9. Ki Cheol Shin 8. Yong Seung Lee (captain), 7. Injo Hwang, 6. Sung Kun Cha, 5. Jin Seok Lee 4. Seok Hwan Jang, 3. Taeh Yeon Kang, 2. Ji Hoon You, 1. Kwanyoung Na

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Tickets on sale to FRONT ROW members on 19 May!

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SIGN UP to be a member of the\u00a0FRONT ROW\u00a0to be able to apply for #RWC2019 Tickets on 19 May, and
\nREGISTER\u00a0for your ticketing account today.

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The post Hong Kong V Korea: Teams named for crucial Top 3 finale appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Hong Kong V Korea,\u00a0The teams have been named for the upcoming Asia Rugby Championship Top 3 finale between Korea and Hong Kong.\nFor hosts Hong Kong they know a win will ensure they win a first-ever Top 3 and progress to face the Cook Islands in the next stage of Rugby World Cup 2019 qualification.\n\nHaving rested several players for their victory against Malaysia head coach Leigh Jones makes no fewer than 12 changes as well as two positional changes.\nIn the forwards Nick Hewson is the only player to retain his place with all other seven positions changes including the inclusion of captain James Cunningham.\nIn the backs, Conor Hartley is rewarded for his hat-trick with a spot on the opposite wingm while Matthew Rosslee switches from centre back to fly-half.\n\u201cThe big picture is definitely the world cup, and there a couple of steps on the way there,\u201d said Cunningham.\n\u201cThe last win over Korea gave us an idea of where we are and what we have to work on going forward.\n\u201cThey have a big pack and it will be similar to the packs we will come up against if we do make it to the repechage with the likes of Canada, so it\u2019s a good test and shows us where we need to work on and areas we need to get stronger in.\u201d\nFor the visitors Korea there are four changes and two positional from the side that beat Malaysia on home soil two weeks ago.\n\nIn the forwards Jin Seok Lee comes into the second row alongside Seok Hwan Jang, while Taeh Yeon Kang plays at tighthead prop.\nIn the backs Seon Gu Kim will play at centre with the impressive Seong Min Jang switch to outside centre.\nOn the wings there is also a starting position for Nam Uk Kim, as Korea look to bounce back from their last meeting with Hong Kong \u2013 a 30-21 defeat in Incheon in round three of the ARC Top 3.\nYou can watch all of the match live on Asia Rugby\u2019s Facebook page, at this link: bit.ly/ARC-Live\nHong Kong XV for match Hong Kong V Korea\n15. Rob Keith, 14. Kam Shing Yiu, 13. Jack Neville, 12. Max Woodward, 11. Conor Hartley, 10. Matthew Rosslee, 9. Liam Slatem, 8. Thomas Lamboley, 7. Toby Fenn, 6. Nick Hewson, 5. Kyle Sullivan, 4. James Cunningham, 3. Dylan Rogers, 2. Ben Roberts, 1. Dan Barlow\nKorea XV for match Hong Kong V Korea\n15. Jae Bok Lee, 14. Jeong Min Jang, 13. Seong Min Jang, 12. Seon Gu Kim 11. Nam Uk Kim, 10. Youn Hyung Oh, 9. Ki Cheol Shin 8. Yong Seung Lee (captain), 7. Injo Hwang, 6. Sung Kun Cha, 5. Jin Seok Lee 4. Seok Hwan Jang, 3. Taeh Yeon Kang, 2. Ji Hoon You, 1. Kwanyoung Na\n\nDon’t\u00a0forget to sign up for RWC tickets\n\nTickets on sale to FRONT ROW members on 19 May!\nSIGN UP to be a member of the\u00a0FRONT ROW\u00a0to be able to apply for #RWC2019 Tickets on 19 May, and\nREGISTER\u00a0for your ticketing account today.\n\n \nThe post Hong Kong V Korea: Teams named for crucial Top 3 finale appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2018-06-01T16:29:28+08:00", "date_modified": "2018-08-17T21:15:27+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/2018/06/-AV5I3435-e1527841314394.jpg", "tags": [ "Hong Kong", "Korea", "Hong Kong V Korea", "Rugby World Cup 2019", "Asia Rugby Championship", "News", "ARC" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=4067", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2018/05/30/rwc-2019-3/", "title": "Saukuru and Malaysia proud to be part of RWC 2019 history \u00a0#RWC2019", "content_html": "

Malaysia may have suffered four defeats in this year\u2019s Asia Rugby Championship, but that didn\u2019t stop them winning many fans globally.

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In their four matches, two of which were played in front of 15,000 people at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia did score five impressive tries.

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And although their dream of qualifying for Rugby World Cup 2019 is over their experience of playing in the top echelon of Asia Rugby will have generated a great amount of interest and continued rugby\u2019s upwards trajectory in Malaysia.

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Two of their tries were scored by Etonia Saukuru and he spoke about the challenges that faced his side during this year\u2019s competition playing against the higher ranked Korea and Hong Kong

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\u201cIt was a good experience for me as it was my first time playing at this level,\u201d said Saukuru.

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\u201cI learnt that quickly how physical and fast the game was going to be and that required a lot of mental discipline.

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\u201cIt was even harder because of the difference in fitness levels and game strategy between us and the other teams but we have taken away valuable lessons of how to improve.\u201d

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Saukuru\u2019s first try came against Hong Kong when he capitalised on a Hong Kong mistake and finished to send the home crowd wild.

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His second was Malaysia\u2019s fifth and last and he again showed his awareness and power to dot down at the Hong Kong Football Club.

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Both moments will live long in the memory for Saukuru.

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\u201cI feel proud, proud to have played in these Rugby World Cup qualifiers,\u201d added the number 8.

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\u201cI am also proud because I contributed towards the two tries and it was great to do this for my team.\u201d

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Malaysia will watch on this weekend as Hong Kong and Korea now do battle to determine who wins this year\u2019s ARC Top 3 and progresses to the next round of Rugby World Cup qualification \u2013 a home and away play-off with the Cook Islands.

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The post Saukuru and Malaysia proud to be part of RWC 2019 history \u00a0#RWC2019 appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "Malaysia may have suffered four defeats in this year\u2019s Asia Rugby Championship, but that didn\u2019t stop them winning many fans globally.\nIn their four matches, two of which were played in front of 15,000 people at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia did score five impressive tries.\n\n \nAnd although their dream of qualifying for Rugby World Cup 2019 is over their experience of playing in the top echelon of Asia Rugby will have generated a great amount of interest and continued rugby\u2019s upwards trajectory in Malaysia.\nTwo of their tries were scored by Etonia Saukuru and he spoke about the challenges that faced his side during this year\u2019s competition playing against the higher ranked Korea and Hong Kong\n\u201cIt was a good experience for me as it was my first time playing at this level,\u201d said Saukuru.\n\u201cI learnt that quickly how physical and fast the game was going to be and that required a lot of mental discipline.\n\u201cIt was even harder because of the difference in fitness levels and game strategy between us and the other teams but we have taken away valuable lessons of how to improve.\u201d\nSaukuru\u2019s first try came against Hong Kong when he capitalised on a Hong Kong mistake and finished to send the home crowd wild.\nHis second was Malaysia\u2019s fifth and last and he again showed his awareness and power to dot down at the Hong Kong Football Club.\n\nBoth moments will live long in the memory for Saukuru.\n\u201cI feel proud, proud to have played in these Rugby World Cup qualifiers,\u201d added the number 8.\n\u201cI am also proud because I contributed towards the two tries and it was great to do this for my team.\u201d\nMalaysia will watch on this weekend as Hong Kong and Korea now do battle to determine who wins this year\u2019s ARC Top 3 and progresses to the next round of Rugby World Cup qualification \u2013 a home and away play-off with the Cook Islands.\nThe post Saukuru and Malaysia proud to be part of RWC 2019 history \u00a0#RWC2019 appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2018-05-30T11:56:03+08:00", "date_modified": "2018-05-30T11:56:03+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/2018/05/image5.jpg", "tags": [ "Malaysia", "#RWC2019", "Asia Rugby Championship", "News", "ARC" ] } ] }