Kolkata is set to make its entry into the Rugby Premier League with the debut of the Kolkata Banga Tigers, a franchise that has assembled a 26-member squad featuring players from 11 countries ahead of the 2026 season. The squad includes Olympians, world champions, national champions and seasoned international players, underlining the franchise's ambition to make an immediate impact in the competition. The team's launch also marks a significant moment for rugby in Eastern India, with Kolkata gaining representation in the league for the first time.
Women's Team Launch
Adding to the milestone is the introduction of the Kolkata Banga Tigers Women's Team, making the franchise one of only four in the country to field a women's side in this year's Rugby Premier League. This move is expected to boost the profile of women's rugby in India and provide more opportunities for female athletes.
Leadership Comments
Addressing a press conference, Sanaya Mehta Vyas, Vice President of Rugby India, welcomed Kolkata's arrival on the national rugby stage and highlighted the importance of expanding the sport's footprint in the region. "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.
Men's team head coach Osea Kolinisau said the focus would be on building a competitive side capable of representing the city with distinction. "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," he said.
Paul Delport, head coach of the women's team, described the launch as an important step for the development of the sport. "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," he said.
Season Details
With a roster combining experienced internationals and emerging talent, the Kolkata Banga Tigers will look to establish themselves as contenders when the Rugby Premier League 2026 gets underway from June 16 to 30 at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad. The tournament will feature top franchises from across the country, and the inclusion of a Kolkata team is expected to draw significant attention to the sport in the region.
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