Bengaluru Bravehearts' Mohit Khatri expresses his views on Rugby Premier League's positive impact

The inaugural edition of the Rugby Premier League will be played from June 15 to 29.

After a draw in their opening match in the inaugural season of the Rugby Premier League (RPL), Bengaluru Bravehearts bounced back in style with a commanding 35-10 win over the Kalinga Black Tigers, registering their first victory in the tournament.

Man of the match and one of India’s best, Mohit Khatri, shed light on the environment in the dressing room, his experience playing against his brothers, and the powerful impact RPL is set to have on the Indian rugby ecosystem.

“The first match was a draw, but we are happy with the win in our second match. Hopefully, the winning cycle will continue. Let’s see what happens in the upcoming matches, but the energy is great, and the team is coming together,” an elated Mohit expressed after the big win.

The RPL is the first franchise-based rugby league of its kind, giving top stars from around the world the opportunity to play together as teammates. Khatri, a seasoned Indian international himself, finds the experience of playing alongside foreign professionals highly rewarding.

“It’s been a good experience. I’ve learnt a lot from the foreign players in such a short time, there’s so much I can’t even express in words. We are slowly beginning to understand what it means to play at world standards. Every match, every interaction, it’s raising our level,” he stated.

“The foreign players are incredibly down to earth. Whenever we approach them for advice, they respond, guide, encourage, and even celebrate our small victories. The whole environment is very positive and supportive,” he added.

Mohit isn’t the only Khatri featuring in the RPL, as his brothers, Prince Khatri and Neeraj Khatri, are also playing against him for the Hyderabad Heroes and the Mumbai Dreamers, respectively. They all started their rugby journey together in Haryana and were introduced to the sport by their eldest brother and former Indian rugby captain Vikas Khatri.

“We used to play sports like football and cricket when we were kids. One day, my elder brother Vikas told us to try something new and introduced us to rugby,” Mohit recalled. “We’ve always played together, but now, we’re playing against each other, it’s like exam time. Let’s see how well I’ve learnt from them over the years,” he added.

Since it’s the first season, the RPL has included a maximum of 30 Indian players in the league; however, Mohit believes that with the growing popularity of the league among the masses, the number will increase a lot going forward.

Mohit shared, “A lot of Indian players have reached out to me. The sport is still growing, but this league will change that. As RPL’s name spreads, more kids will get inspired. Next year, there will probably be 50 or 60 Indian players. We’ll work hard to increase that number.”

Lastly, Mohit sent out a warm message to the people and said, “If there are any kids in your neighborhood or if there is anyone interested in playing a new game, our game is most welcome for all of you. Come and play our game, watch our league, and support us as much as possible.”

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