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.
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.”
Shruti, 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.”
Paul Delport, Head Coach, Kolkata Banga Tigers Women’s Team, added:
“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.”
With a squad featuring elite international talent, experienced leaders and emerging stars from across the world, the Kolkata Banga Tigers are set to carry Kolkata’s ambitions onto one of the biggest stages in the sport as they prepare for their inaugural Rugby Premier League campaign.
The HSBC Rugby Premier League 2026 is scheduled from 16th–30th June at Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad, and will stream live on JioHotstar and Star Sports 1 Select.
