Pr11me Rugby & 11 Rugby Co Ltd, organized, in a short time frame, a unique rugby 11s concept that was held in Chiang Mai, over the week of 14-19 July 2025. The Pr11me Rugby Gathering Chiang Mai 2025 was born. With the help of Thai Rugby Union North, Cobras Rugby Club and Payap University, everything was put in place for a successful tournament.

With many flight delays, cancelations and rebooked flights, the week got off to a shaky start but by the first match day on the 15th all the South African and UK players had arrived, and were ready for action. Although the lighting at the Payap University ground wasn’t the best, the pitch was in tip top condition for the upcoming tournament.

The Tom Pullen’s “Gathering” concept had the incoming U23 academy players being assigned teams which were then filled out with local Thai rugby players who were chomping at the bit, to be able to play with and against, lads from tier one rugby nations and they didn’t disappoint. With players from Chiang Mai All Stars, Meajo University, TNSU, Chiang Mai Cobras, Lanna Rugby Club & Prince Royals College, it showed the strength of rugby in the region. Sunday 13 & Monday 14 July were designated training days where the respective teams got to know each other after being appointed coaches, to help guide them on their way. All the team names were chosen so as to have a Northern Thai connection. Doi Saket Rhinos, Lanna Falcons, Mae Ping Vipers, Nimman Bulls, Suthep Storm & Yonok Wolves.

The tournament was a round robin format where all teams played each other with the top two teams playing for the cup, teams three & four for the plate & teams five & six, for the bowl. Over the two match days the action was fast and furious with all players giving 100%. Even though there was persistent rain over both days of action, the skill level was such, from all the players, that there were very few handling errors throughout. The local Thai players raised their games and competed very well, with many having standout tournaments, and getting high praise from the South African & UK players.

In the finals, the Mae Ping Vipers found some form & won the bowl final against the Lanna Falcons, whilst the Nimman Bulls just held on to win the Plate over the Doi Saket Rhinos.

The Pr11me Rugby “Gathering” Chiang Mai 2025 culminated in a gripping final, between the Yonok Wolves & the Suthep Storm. The game swung one way, then the other with both teams showing skill and tenacity throughout. The first half was pretty even, with the Storm just about having the edge.

In the second half as the Storm began to tire, the Wolves started to take control and, after some great approach play, scored what could well have been the deciding score. The Storm was not about to give up and thundered back into it, with a breakaway score in the corner with minutes to go. It was a difficult kick that needed to go over to tie up the scores and the storm duly delivered. All square approaching full time. The Wolves were baying for blood and surged to the line, after retrieving the kick off, eventually going over, for what was thought to be the winner. Referee Rosie Evans, after consulting with the AR, decided it was held up! Oh, what drama as the whistle blew, and into golden point extra time, we went.

The Wolves challenged straight from the kick off and the Storm were penalised for holding on 35 meters out! The Wolves opted for the penalty kick which under normal circumstances was pretty straight forward, but this was a high-pressure situation. As it happened, what was a worthy final was won by the Wolves, as the kick sailed through the posts!

Pr11me Rugby “Gathering” Chiang Mai 2025

Champions

Yonok Wolves

Presentations were made to The Thai Rising Star Forward, Siriset “Wan” Saipanyoyai & Thai Rising Star Back, William Chance.

The Pr11me Players of the tournament were Best Forward, Joshua Africa, Best Back: Joe Martindale & Player of the Tournament Wehan Lume.

An epic end to an epic week of rugby.

The closing party was held at Khum Khan Toke restaurant, where the boys experienced Lanna cuisine & traditional Thai shows, showcased by a typical Thai monsoon downpour!

Tom Pullen & Pr11me Rugby’s concept of mixing Tier one academy players into teams, with up-and-coming local Thai players, has been a complete success. A community outreach by Pr11me Rugby on Friday 18th donated scholarships to underprivileged students at Wat Phra Nong Phueng School.

11s Rugby is proud to have been involved with Pr11me Rugby & uxisport.co.za in bringing the event to Chiang Mai & look forward to our continued involvement in 2026.

Watch this space for the 2026 “Gathering” destination and dates.

Tournament Photos Click Below