Souvik Saha
Kolkata is all set to make history in Indian rugby as the Kolkata Banga Tigers, the city’s first-ever franchise in the HSBC Rugby Premier League (RPL), prepare for their inaugural campaign with a star-studded squad featuring 26 players from 11 countries.
The team boasts an impressive blend of international talent, including Olympians, World Champions, National Champions, and some of the most accomplished rugby players from around the globe. The franchise’s entry into the league marks a significant milestone for rugby in Eastern India and reflects Kolkata’s rich sporting heritage.
Adding to the landmark occasion is the launch of the Kolkata Banga Tigers Women, making the franchise one of only four teams in India to field a women’s squad in this year’s Rugby Premier League. The initiative is expected to play a vital role in promoting women’s participation and visibility in rugby across the country.
The official launch event was attended by Sanaya Mehta Vyas, Vice President of Rugby India, who expressed her enthusiasm about Kolkata’s debut in the competition.
“Kolkata has always shared a special relationship with rugby and it is wonderful to see the city represented on the Rugby Premier League stage. The launch of the Kolkata Banga Tigers marks an important step for the growth of the sport in Eastern India. I am equally excited to see Kolkata field a women’s team this season, creating greater opportunities and visibility for female rugby players while inspiring the next generation of athletes,” she said.
Representing the franchise at the launch, Shruti, Spokesperson for Kolkata Banga Tigers, highlighted the long-standing commitment of Hunch Ventures to the development of rugby in India.
“Hunch Ventures has been associated with rugby in India for several years, and our participation in the Rugby Premier League with the Kolkata Banga Tigers is a natural extension of that commitment. Given Kolkata’s unique place in rugby’s history, it is a fitting home for the franchise,” she said.
The men’s team will be led by renowned Fijian rugby figure Osea Kolinisau, who serves as Head Coach.
“We have assembled a talented group of players with extensive international experience. Our focus is on building a team that plays with intensity, discipline and pride, and we are excited to represent Kolkata in the franchise’s inaugural season,” Kolinisau stated.
Meanwhile, the women’s squad will be coached by internationally respected rugby coach Paul Delport, who emphasized the importance of the women’s competition.
“The launch of the women’s team is an important moment for rugby in India. We have a strong group of athletes who are eager to compete at the highest level, and we hope this team inspires more young girls to take up the sport,” Delport said.
With a roster featuring elite international stars, experienced leaders, and emerging talents from around the world, the Kolkata Banga Tigers are determined to make a strong impression in their debut season and establish themselves as a formidable force in Indian rugby.
The HSBC Rugby Premier League 2026 will be held from 16 to 30 June 2026 at the Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad, and will be broadcast live on JioHotstar and Star Sports 1 Select.
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