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.
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.
As 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.
Solidarity 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 🇦🇪
Our prayers and hearts with all victims’ families #Syria #Turkey pic.twitter.com/YUeF9xswHS
— Qais A. Al Dhalai (@QaisUAE) February 10, 2023
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.
Asia Rugby Independent Executive Committee member Trevor Gregory presented the championship trophy to the champions.
Man of the match, Wade Lotter from Qatar, spoke to Asia Rugby about the tournament, saying, “There was a long wait for this
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.”
Iran also demonstrated impressive character, finishing the game with two outstanding tries by superstar Ali Yaghooti
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Asia Rugby Calendar 2023
https://www.asiarugby.com/calendar-2023/
Watch the full game
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWw24pO_3s8
