As Chennai Bulls prepare to defend their Rugby Premier League (RPL) title, vice-captain Mohit Khatri sees the league as a game-changer for Indian rugby. The RPL, the world’s first franchise-based rugby sevens league, kicks off its second season on June 16. This year, the tournament expands to include a women’s competition with four teams.
Defending champions Chennai Bulls are among the top contenders this season. Led by Argentinian international Santiago Alvarez, who captained his country at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Bulls boast a talented squad. Vice-captain Mohit Khatri, a key figure in Indian rugby, brings valuable experience to the team’s leadership group.
Chennai Bulls have been making waves off the field too. In the previous season, they became the first Indian team to compete in prestigious international tournaments like the Fiji Coral Coast 7s and the Hong Kong 10s. This move underscores their commitment to raising the profile of the franchise and Indian rugby globally.
Mohit Khatri, often hailed as the face of Indian rugby, embraces his role as a prominent figure in the sport. Despite the visibility and responsibility that come with the title, Khatri views it as a positive aspect. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on his game and not letting external pressures weigh him down.
Reflecting on his rugby journey, Khatri cherishes memories of representing Haryana alongside family members and contributing to the state’s dominance in Indian rugby. From his early days with the Delhi Hurricanes, Khatri credits the club for laying the foundation of his career and shaping him into the player he is today.
Khatri, having captained Haryana and the national team, now finds himself as the vice-captain of a team filled with international talent. He views this opportunity not just as a leadership role but also as a chance to learn from some of the world’s best rugby players. Playing alongside top athletes offers him a unique learning experience and insights into the game at a global level.
