GMR Rugby Premier League unveils star-studded lineup for the inaugural season

Saturday, : Rugby Royalty showcased an exciting preview of the upcoming action in store during the launch press conference of the inaugural season of GMR Rugby Premier League.

The media were adressed by CEO of GMR Sports Satyam Trivedi and Rugby India President Rahul Bose who were then joined by all six franchise owners for a photo opportunity.

Also present were the team coaches and marquee players from their respective franchises.

From Hyderabad Heroes, coach DJ Forbes alongwith Prince Khatri and Manuel Moreno, from Chennai Bulls coach Ben Gollongs and Alex Davis and from Bengaluru Bravehearts, Mohit Khatri and Pol Pla were present alongwith their coach Pack Hernandez were present.

Also in attendance were coach Tomasi Cama, Deepak Punia and Matias osadczuk of Delhi Redz, coach Mike Friday, Asis Sabr and Maurice Longbottom of Kalinga Black Tigers and lastly from Mumbai Dreamers’ coach Tim Walsh, Akash Balmiki and James Turner.

The team coaches and players of the respective franchises who shared their thoughts ahead of the season.

The media also got a chance to witness the players in action as they passed the ball around and explained the rules of the game to the media.

CEO of GMR Sports Satyam Trivedi stated, “ This league has it all to make it big and successful in India. It is both a great broadcast product and a great on-ground property and we are very proud of this partnership with Rugby India.

President of Rugby India Rahul Bose spoke on similar lines and stated, “ It is truly incredible what we have managed to do here. We have big names from all over the world of rugby playing together as teammates. Looking forward to the high octane action we are about to witness over the next few days.”

The GMR Rugby Premier League is set to commence from 15th June 2025.

About Rugby India
Established in 1998, Indian Rugby Football Union (IRFU), or commonly known as Rugby India, is the official governing body for the sport of rugby in India. Awarded the Best Sports Federation for Development, by FICCI at the 2024 Indian Sports Awards, IRFU is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, it is a full member of World Rugby, Asia Rugby, and the Indian Olympic Association. As the sole authority for all formats of the game – including Rugby 15s, Rugby 7s, Touch, Tag, Wheelchair Rugby, and more – Rugby India promotes inclusivity and participation across all genders, age groups, and skill levels. With 26 affiliated state associations and active representation in platforms such as the National Games, School Games Federation of India, Khelo India University Games, Khelo India Youth Games and ASMITA Women’s Leagues, Rugby India is committed to building a strong, diverse, and competitive rugby ecosystem nationwide.

About GMR Sports

Founded in 2008, GMR Sports represents the sports sector of the GMR Group. It is driven by a mission to connect people, nurture talent, and establish sports as a powerful unifying platform both within India and globally. Committed to becoming a respected and influential brand in the sports industry, GMR Sports embarked on its journey with cricket, chosen for its widespread appeal as the ideal starting point for the Group’s first-ever sports venture.

The journey began with the Delhi Capitals, the city’s first-ever cricket franchise and the sole representative of India’s national capital in the IPL. As part of its mission to broaden its impact, GMR Sports soon diversified its portfolio, adding sports that resonate deeply with the Indian community. The company now owns UP Yoddhas in the Pro Kabaddi League and Telugu Yoddhas in the Ultimate Kho Kho League, additionally, has recently ventured into the league by acquiring rights to the Rugby Premier League, reinforcing its dedication to supporting regional talent and promoting indigenous sports. Expanding its global footprint, GMR Sports now holds franchises in international markets, including Dubai Capitals in ILT20, Pretoria Capitals in SA20, Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket (US), and Hampshire County Cricket Club in England. Through these initiatives, GMR Sports continues to strengthen its presence on the world stage.

For further information about GMR Group, visit http://www.gmrgroup.in