India’s Rugby Vanguard: Meet the Top Homegrown Stars of RPL Season 1

As the Rugby Premier League (RPL) kicks off its inaugural season in Mumbai, all eyes are not only on the international legends gracing Indian soil but also on the country’s finest rugby talent. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these Indian players are set to make a powerful statement in the world’s first franchise-based Rugby Sevens league.

Leading Names to Watch

1. Mohit Khatri – Bengaluru Bravehearts  
   - The most expensive Indian player at the RPL Season 1 auction  
   - Current captain of the Indian national team, appointed in 2024  
   - Hails from Kundli, Sonipat (Haryana), and began playing rugby at age 13  
   - Led India at the Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy 2024 in Nepal  
   - Represented India in the 2023 Olympic qualifiers in Japan  
   - Instrumental in Haryana’s triple gold medal haul at the National Games

2. Prince Khatri – Hyderabad Heroes  
   - One of the most experienced Indian players in the league  
   - Made his national debut in 2012 and has played in eight Asia Rugby Sevens and 15s Championships  
   - Former India captain with international stints in South Africa, Hong Kong, and Malaysia  
   - Eight-time Senior National Rugby Sevens Champion with Haryana  
   - Known for his leadership and consistency on the field

3. Ganesh Majhi – Mumbai Dreamers  
   - Captain of India’s U20 team in 2023  
   - Belongs to the Bonda tribe in Malkangiri, Odisha  
   - A product of the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, which has nurtured tribal rugby talent  
   - Transitioned successfully to the senior national setup  
   - Represents a new generation of Indian rugby players with grassroots origins

4. Asis Sabar – Kalinga Black Tigers  
   - Another standout from Odisha, born in 2004  
   - Comes from the Sabar tribe in Kalahandi and is a second-year undergraduate student  
   - Selected by the Kalinga Black Tigers during the player auction  
   - Known for his agility and fearless play, he embodies the spirit of emerging Indian rugby

5. Deepak Punia – Chennai Bulls  
   - A dynamic forward with a strong presence in the scrum  
   - Has represented India in multiple age-group tournaments  
   - Brings physicality and tactical awareness to the Chennai Bulls lineup  
   - Seen as a key enforcer in the team’s defensive structure

Emerging Themes and National Impact

- The RPL has provided a platform for 30 Indian players selected from a pool of 71, offering them exposure alongside global icons  
- Many of these athletes come from underrepresented regions and tribal communities, highlighting rugby’s growing reach in India  
- The league is expected to elevate the sport’s profile nationally and inspire a new generation of players

Sources: The Tribune, Telangana Today, IndiaPost, WebIndia123, Khel Now, ANI News, India.com, Rugby India press releases.