Kolkata Banga Tigers Set for Historic Rugby Premier League Debut with Global Squad of 26 Players. Pictures by Sanchita Chatterjee, BS News Agency.
Sanchita Chatterjee, BS News Agency: Kolkata Banga Tigers, Kolkata's first-ever franchise in the Rugby Premier League, are set to make their much-anticipated debut this season with a squad of 26 players from 11 countries, featuring Olympians, World Champions, National Champions and some of the most accomplished rugby talent from around the world.
Pictures by Sanchita Chatterjee, BS News Agency.
The franchise marks a historic moment for rugby in Eastern India, with Kolkata entering the Rugby Premier League for the very first time. Built on a blend of international experience and elite sporting talent, the squad reflects the franchise's ambition to establish itself as a strong force in the competition while contributing to the growth of rugby in the region.
Adding to the significance of the season is the launch of the Kolkata Banga Tigers Women, making the franchise one of only four teams across India to field a women's squad in the Rugby Premier League this year.
Joining the press conference was Sanaya Mehta Vyas, Vice President, Rugby India, who expressed her excitement at seeing Kolkata represented in the Rugby Premier League for the first time. A rugby player herself and a Kolkatan, she spoke about what the city's entry into the league means for the growth of the sport in Eastern India. A strong advocate for women in sports, she also highlighted the significance of the Kolkata Banga Tigers Women and the role the women's competition will play in creating greater participation, visibility and opportunities for female athletes across the country.
Speaking at the launch, Sanaya Mehta Vyas, Vice President, Rugby India, said:
"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."
Shaunte Ranjeev Ghosh, Spokesperson, Kolkata Banga Tigers, present at the launch, added:
"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."
Osea Kolinisau, Head Coach, Kolkata Banga Tigers Men's Team, said:
"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."