KUALA LUMPUR - The roar of rugby returns to Kuala Lumpur as the 52nd Cobra Rugby 10s takes centre stage, an international celebration of skill, unity and sportsmanship featuring powerhouse teams from around the globe.
This year’s tournament not only honours Cobra’s five-decade legacy but also embraces inclusivity with the debut of the Women’s and Veterans’ categories, solidifying its place as Malaysia’s most iconic rugby event.
The Cobra Rugby 10s 2025 promises an unforgettable weekend of high-octane action as 12 elite men’s teams from seven countries clash for glory. Hosted by the legendary Cobra Rugby Club, the tournament will showcase top-tier talent and the undying passion that has defined the sport for generations.
Fans can look forward to the dazzling athleticism of Papua New Guinea’s POM Harlequins, the brute strength of South Africa’s NTK Rugby and the explosive flair of Samoa’s Koko Samoa.
Adding to the excitement are New Zealand’s Pakuranga Rugby Club and Hautapu SSC, the UK’s storied Penguin Rugby and Malaysia’s own pride — Cobra Rugby Club, KL Tigers, SSTMI Tsunami, MPSJ Knight, Royal Town Warriors and KRAS Rugby.
The competition format ensures no team gets an easy ride. Two groups of six will face off in five intense matches each, with the top two progressing to the coveted Cup semi-finals. Third and fourth-placed teams will battle for the Plate, while fifth and sixth will contest the Bowl.
Every point matters, every try counts, this is rugby at its fiercest.
This year also marks the exciting return of the Women’s tournament, featuring five of Malaysia’s finest sides in a round-robin format. The top four will move on to the semi-finals, setting the stage for an exhilarating showdown where every match could rewrite the story of women’s rugby in Malaysia.
For the first time ever, the Veterans’ competition joins the Cobra Rugby 10s, bringing together seasoned players in a spirited one-day, five-team league. It Is a showcase of endurance, camaraderie and experience; proving that rugby is a lifelong passion.
“On behalf of Cobra, it is an honour and a privilege to welcome all teams, guests and supporters to the 52nd edition of the Cobra 10s (C10s) tournament.
“It is a historic event that celebrates over five decades of dedication, passion and commitment to the sport of rugby,” Cobra President Darryll Sinnappa said.
He added that this milestone reflects the spirit of camaraderie and excellence that has defined Cobra as a club since its inception.
Highlighting the tournament’s evolution, Sinnappa shared that the Cobra 10s began in 1967 with just eight local teams and within three years, it evolved into a premier rugby tournament with strong participation from across the region.
“Today, it stands as Malaysia’s most elite international-grade rugby tournament, attracting top-tier talent from across the globe. Meanwhile, the introduction of the Women’s and Veterans’ categories in 2025 reflects our commitment to inclusivity, diversity and lifelong participation in sport.
“Cobra remains deeply committed to grassroots development, with coaching clinics and youth rugby programmes running alongside the event. These initiatives are vital in nurturing future talent and instilling the values of rugby in the next generation.
“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our players, coaches, administrators, sponsors and friends who have helped us reach this remarkable milestone,” he added.
The 52nd Cobra Rugby 10s is made possible by a dynamic lineup of sponsors and partners who share the same vision of community, growth and sporting excellence.
IJM Corporation Berhad, WCE Holdings Berhad and Sideline Restaurant and Bar continue their steadfast sponsorship, while newcomers Microleap (main Cobra team sponsor), Total Energies and the Youth and Sports Ministry join the fold.
Malaysian Airlines Berhad will be ensuring the global spirit of the tournament by flying in international teams, while Aliran Tenaga supports as the Technical Partner and Skyblue Media amplifies visibility through strategic media placements along the Federal Highway.
IJM’s Group chief executive officer and managing director Datuk Lee Chun Fai shared the company’s long-term vision behind supporting the event:
“At IJM, we believe in investing in our communities through initiatives that nurture teamwork, discipline and resilience; values that are deeply rooted in our organisation.
“Our longstanding support for the Cobra 10s reflects our long-term commitment to developing non-mainstream sports and fostering a thriving rugby culture in Malaysia,” Lee said.