SANDAKAN: Sirens Singapore were crowned champions of the 5th International Women’s Rugby 15s Friendship Cup 2026, hosted by the Sabah Rugby Union (SRU), after defeating SRU 5-0 in the final at Eagles Rugby Club (ERC) stadium, here, Sunday.
The two-day tournament held Friday (Sept 25) and Sunday (Sept 27) featured 15 matches with approximately 5.3 hours of playing time, providing valuable exposure and experience for the participating teams in the 15-a-side rugby format.
Among the teams involved were Flaming Flamingos of Philippines, who also faced SRU and Sirens during the tournament.
ERC President Vela Tan said the tournament was more than just a sporting competition, as it also served as a platform to strengthen friendships among rugby players from Sabah, the Philippines and Singapore.
“This is part of the friendship that we have developed between the Philippines and Sabah, and now Singapore has joined us as well,” he said.
“Hopefully, in the future, we can have teams from Sarawak and Selangor joining us,” said Tan.
He said the tournament also provided an opportunity to further develop women’s 15-a-side rugby.
“Hopefully, we can continue this (tournament) next year,” he added.
Tan also noted that teams from Fiji and Sarawak were unable to compete this year and hope they can join next year’s tournament.
Sirens captain Dawn said the tournament was a positive experience for her and the team as well as providing an opportunity to build friendships with the teams from Sabah.
Dawn added that the tournament provided an opportunity for the players and clubs to come together, compete and enjoy the spirit of rugby.
“We enjoyed it and hope to come again next time.”